Democrat Barack Obama struggled yesterday to explain how his upcoming trip to Iraq might refine, but not basically alter, his promise to quickly remove U.S. combat troops from the war.

US Democratic presidential hopeful Barack Obama has said that he will 'refine' his Iraq policy, but pledged not to change his basic policy position on the issue.

Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill., softened his time line for troop withdrawals from Iraq, saying he'd consult with U.S. commanders to ensure safety and security.