intent in the past to depart iraq. >> you weren't consulted before that decision was announced? >> i was not consulted. >> reporter: he is emphasizing he is carrying out the president's orders. this morning he stressed military pressure must be maintained and success relies on the u.s.-allied syrian democratic forces. >> when they are capable of handling the threat on their own that will be another key criteria indicating to me that we have accomplished our mission of defeat of isis. >> as you sit here today? >> we are not there. we are not there on terms of that. >> reporter: adding that he believes iran still remains the biggest long term threat to the middle east. he sees indications that iran's advanced ballistic missile technology could be a precursor to a more significant weapon. >> it shouldn't be lost on anybody that an advanced