Washington ? In another sign of U.S. struggles in Iraq, the target date for putting Iraqi authorities in charge of security in all 18 provinces has slipped yet again, to at least July.

The delay, noted in a Pentagon report to Congress on progress and problems in Iraq, highlights the difficulties in developing Iraqi police forces and the slow pace of economic and political progress in some areas.

It is the second time this year the target date for completing what is known as “Provincial Iraqi Control” has been pushed back. The Pentagon report submitted to Congress on Monday hinted at the possibility of further delays.

Asked about this at a White House news conference Thursday, President Bush acknowledged that progress has lagged since his announcement in January that the target would be reached in November of this year.

“The goals are the same,” Bush said. “Have we achieved them as fast? No, we haven’t. But, however, having not achieved them doesn’t mean we ought to quit – means we ought to work hard to achieve the goals. Because the end result is the same, whether the goal is done in November or in July.”

The intent is to give the provincial governments control over security in their area as a step toward lessening – and eventually ending – the U.S. security role.

Thus far seven of the 18 provinces have reverted to Iraqi control.