In Iraq, Defense Secretary Robert Gates continued his inaugural visit Thursday with meetings with Iraq’s prime minister and other top officials. Gates’ visit has coincided with increasing reports the Bush administration is gearing to send more troops to Iraq. Gates denied getting into specifics with his Iraqi counterparts.

Defense Secretary Robert Gates: “I can say that no numbers of additional troops were discussed. The focus was mainly on an overall approach and including the possibility of some additional assistance. But as I said, he really didn’t discuss any numbers we were really talking in broader terms.”

Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki later said he has no opinion on an influx of U.S. troops and that U.S. military leaders should decide.