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The article reports that the control of Basra in Iraq was handed over to the Iraqi government by the British forces. The region was under their military supervision since four and a half years. Basra is stated to be a politically vital province and so officials in the U.S. are wondering if the transfer will prove to be Iraq's test of political and military leadership ability. Political analysts are seeing whether the step will prevent Shiite militia from gaining too much influence.

The article discusses the outcomes of the British troop withdrawal from Basra, Iraq. Some military commanders and government officials have expressed concerns that the pull-out will put them and a supply route to Baghdad at risk. The rout, through which fuel, food, ammunition and equipment are supplied to Baghdad, crosses a territory that is under the control of rival militias and criminal gangs.

The article reports on the Iraq visit of British Prime Minister Gordon Brown on December 9, 2007. He made an unannounced visit to Basra to address there the British troops who are scheduled to hand over the region to Iraqi forces in mid-December. After British troop withdrawal from Basra, the number of British troops in Iraq will drop to 2,500 from 4,500. The day continued witnessing violent attacks including the killing of a police chief in Baghdad.