The Obama administration is very sensitive to criticism regarding overruling the military commanders. At the same time, Obama needs to balance the desire of his Progressive base (who wants repeal and is his only hope for avoiding a bloodbath come November) and independents (who he also needs and are mostly against repeal).

This solution allows him to claim victory with the base AND claim that he will listen to his military leaders when speaking to independents. Of course, the military leaders will toe the line or be replaced. If Gates or Mullin do need to be replaced, it will conveniently not be until after the November elections.