WASHINGTON (CNN) -- Ahead of taking control of the House in January, Congressional Democrats plan to hold a forum next month on Iraq's future featuring former administration and military officials.

"We know that 'stay the course' is not working, has not made our country safer, has not honored the commitment to our troops, and has not brought stability to the region," House Speaker Designate Nancy Pelosi, D-California, said in a statement. "I look forward to hearing from our distinguished group of experts as House Democrats discuss the deteriorating situation in Iraq."

Former National Security Advisor State Zbigniew Brzezinski, former Ambassador Richard Holbrooke and retired Maj. Gen. John Batiste will appear at the Dec. 5th forum.

The forum will be held on the same day the Senate Armed Service Committee is scheduled to commence hearings on Defense Secretary nominee Robert Gates.