A Soldiers Blog

2005-11-23T10:47:00.000-08:00

Schiff to Deliver Letters to Our Troops
Schiff to Deliver Letters to Our Troops

During the next few weeks, Congressman Schiff will be visiting our troops, and he would like to bring messages of thanksgiving from our community.

"I'm so thankful to the men and women of our military, many of whom are overseas, sacrificing time away from their families to serve our nation," said Schiff. "During this holiday season when we gather among friends and family, let's think of those who are away from home. If you would like to send notes or letters to the soldiers, I'd be honored to deliver them to our heroes in uniform. Children may even want to draw pictures. Your messages will brighten the day for so many who are serving our nation far from home."

Please send cards, letters, and drawings to:

Congressman Adam Schiff

35 South Raymond Avenue

Pasadena, CA 91105

Or via fax at (626) 304-0572

Please send messages by December 9. If you have any questions, or have additional ideas for how our community can honor our troops, please contact my office at 626-304-2727.

2005-06-16T09:13:00.000-07:00

Marathon for the Fisher House Landstuhl
Marathon for the Fisher House Landstuhl

http://sponsormywalk.info/

My name is Norm Raynal; I am a 64-year old diabetic who works for the Defense Commissary Agency. I have been wondering, perhaps like many of you, how to stay healthy and do something beneficial with my off-duty time. I tried several different activities, but nothing seemed "right" for meâ?¦too time-consuming, limited exercise, and especially no sense of feeling like I was doing something worthwhileâ?¦nothing seemed to "fit.â?? I told a good friend about my dilemma and she suggested I consider volunteering at the Fisher House. I had no idea what the Fisher House was. When I saw an ad looking for volunteers to help the Fisher House clean up after the holidays, I thought about her suggestion and decided to give it a try.

The manager was kind enough to take some time from her busy day to explain what the Fisher House provides for service members and their families. I learned that in our area, there are two Fisher Houses collocated to the Landstuhl Regional Medical Center that provide a â??home away from homeâ?? for families assisting wounded service members or who are themselves receiving medical care at Landstuhl. During 2004, these two houses assisted over 900 families.

The Fisher Houses depend on donations to maintain their operation. To support this worthwhile cause, I will walk five 42.9 marathons and ask each of you to pledge a dollar amount for each kilometer I walk or a dollar amount for each marathon I walk. No walk â?¦no donation.

Kathy Gregory provided me with more ideas and suggestions and along with another friend, Berndt Schwarz, we put this web site together. Karin Hand did the final edit so Kathy Reed could do the English - German translation what we will post in the near future. Thanks to my friends, we are able to reach out to the community for support.

Your donation after the first, third and fifth marathon will directly go to the service members and their families who stay at the Landstuhl Fisher Houses.

I ask you to help those who fight for our freedom by being generous with your pledge.

As the Manager of the Landstuhl Fisher Houses I welcome the support you will provide us. We do not receive any government funding and our operating costs come from donations and the $10 room fee. The Fisher House Foundation that is listed on the Combined Federal Campaign is a separate Fund that solicits money for building new Fisher Houses, supporting existing Fisher Houses and helping individual families in need. Charitable activities like this 5 X marathon help us meet our donation goal as well as spread the word that the Landstuhl Fisher Houses are here to help our families in need. We estimate $155,000 will be needed this year, so we thank you for your pledge which will help us provide care and support. You will be helping to keep a family unit together and assisting each family through their medical crisis by giving us the ability to provide â??compassionate care beyond the call of dutyâ??.

2005-06-09T12:38:00.000-07:00

Iraq War News
U.S. Probing Private Iraqi Guards: "The U.S. military is investigating 16 private American security guards and three Iraqi contractors for shooting at Marines and Iraqi civilians during a three-hour spree last month in Fallujah."

In CBS News: Iraq Crisis

Sunnis given 25 seats on Iraqi committee: "Sunni Muslim Arabs will be given up to 25 seats on the committee drafting Iraq's new constitution, President Jalal Talabani said Thursday."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

16 contractors under arrest for attack US troops in IraqWar.info

Iraqi leader seeks security role for militia: "very hard to sully the reputation of nationalist movements like Badr so that they can achieve goals that do not serve the interests of the Iraqi people," Abdul

[in Aljazeera.net]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Talks with Iraqi rebels possible - Rice: "Washington - American Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice left the door open on Wednesday for Iraqi officials to negotiate with groups linked to the insurgency, saying political reconciliation must be...

[in IOL]"

In The US News: Iraq News

America's best hope is a Democratic regime change: "Iran is developing an atomic bomb delivery system along with North Korea, and our president invaded Iraq. Iraq had no capability to do anything to anyone.

[in Port Huron Times Herald]"

In The US News: Iraq News

In Increasing Numbers Youth Resisting Recruitment for Iraq: "Darrett Evans, a legal secretary from Bridgeport, Connecticut and of Costa Rican descent, wanted to find summer employment for her nephew and her daughter, so she responded to a Sunday classified ad i...

[in Pacific News Service]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Katy soldier who killed himself added to Iraq casualty roster: "The Department of Defense has added the name of a soldier from Katy who committed suicide almost two years ago to the official roster of casualties from the war in Iraq."

In HoustonChronicle.com -- Iraq

2005-06-05T08:41:00.000-07:00

Iraq War News
Saddam will face only 12 charges at trial: "Ousted Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein could face up to 500 charges at a tribunal, but he will be tried on only 12 because prosecuting all would be a "waste of time," the prime minister's spokesman said Sunday."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

Kurdish rebels kill four Turkish soldiers: "Kurdish rebels have killed four Turkish soldiers in a clash in southeastern Turkey, officials said Sunday. The clash occurred near the city of Tunceli, the Anatolia news agency reported, citing the governor's office. It was not clear when the fighting took place."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

Australian hostage in Iraq alive, says cleric: "SYDNEY (Reuters) - An Australian held hostage in Iraq for five weeks has been seen alive and well by an Australian mufti trying to negotiate his release, a local Muslim leader said on Sunday. Sheik...

[in Reuters]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Iraqi Airways Starts Flights to Southern Basra, Considers Expanding Service: "BASRA, Iraq (AP) - Iraqi Airways inaugurated a route from Baghdad to the southern city of Basra on Saturday, part of an expansion plan that also involves extreme security measures at the capital's air...

[in Tampa Bay Online]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Marines discover insurgent bunker...Quran reaction...Gore discusses global in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Bush's optimism on Iraq tested: "The disconnect between Rose Garden optimism and Baghdad pessimism, according to government officials and independent analysts, stems not only from Bush's focus on tentative signs of long-term progress...

[in MSNBC]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Saddam is depressed, says his trial judge: "05 June 2005 Saddam Hussein's morale has "collapsed" after nearly 18 months in jail awaiting trial, according to the man who will sit in judgment on him. Iraq's former dictator has been held in an Ame...

[in Independent]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Elected Iraqis hold session in Saddam's hometown: "The U.S. soldiers entered the battered government building, made their way past expressionless townspeople and came face to face with about a dozen men carrying AK-47s."

In HoustonChronicle.com -- Iraq

Iraqi troops seize militant 'prince of princes': "MOSUL, Iraq (Reuters) - Iraqi forces have seized a senior militant leader linked to Jordanian mastermind Abu Musab al-Zarqawi and accused of overseeing an array of deadly attacks in Iraq, the Defense ...

[in Reuters]"

In The US News: Iraq News

In Prison Duty Training, Military Guards Face Their First Riot at Home: "The Army is taking lessons learned from combat zones to train its security forces for guard duty at American detention centers."

In New York Times: World Special

Iraqi troops refuse to attend army training: "RUTBA:An Iraqi national guard unit has been disbanded after it refused to attend a military training academy overseen by US advisers, former members of the unit said on Sunday.

[in Stuff]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Iraqi, U.S. Troops Search for Insurgent Hideouts, Find Insurgent Lair and Arrest Dozens: "LATIFIYAH, Iraq (AP) - Hundreds of Iraqi and U.S. troops searched fields and farms Saturday for insurgents and their hideouts in an area south of Baghdad known for attacks, and the Marines said they d...

[in Tampa Bay Online]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Attacks in Iraq, 84 gunmen detained south of Baghdad: "Attacks in Iraq, 84 gunmen detained south of Baghdad Iraq, Military, 6/4/2005 Various areas in Iraq witnessed on Friday a series of explosions that resulted in killing and injuring scores, the las...

[in Arabic News]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Surge in Iraq violence leaves 750 dead in May: "zones that have powered the on-going guerilla offensive in Iraq that claimed has continued with a suicide car bomber killing at least 10 Iraqis and wounding 10

[in Hindu]"

In The US News: Iraq News

2005-06-02T11:13:00.000-07:00

Three suicide bombings in Iraq kill 20: "BAGHDAD, Iraq (AP) - Three suicide car bombings killed 20 people in northern Iraq on Thursday, including a top municipal council leader and a bodyguard of Iraq's Kurdish deputy prime minister, officials said."

In Fresno Bee: Iraq

Beirut blast kills anti-Syrian journalist: "A prominent Lebanese journalist known for his anti-Syrian writings was killed after a bomb placed in his car exploded Thursday, police said, a slaying in the midst of parliamentary elections, free for the first time of overt Syrian interference."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

Abu Ghraib GI: I'm No Bad Apple: "The first Army reservist to be freed after serving time in the Abu Ghraib prisoner abuse scandal says he's a good person who was under conditions so stressful it would "drive the most docile soldier from 'Gomer Pyle' into 'Full Metal Jacket.'""

In CBS News: Iraq Crisis

After the Shooting Has Stopped: "It's one of the deepest wounds a soldier can suffer, and one that few want to talk about. But it happened to an American GI in Baghdad whose convoy was attacked while hauling an emergency supply of fuel. He talks to David Martin."

In CBS News: Iraq Crisis

Stay The Course, Iraqi Foreign Minsiter Tells Allies: "Foreign Minister Hoshyar Zebari commented Wednesday after meeting with Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. He said it's important the coalition be "firm and solid" while Baghdad builds its military a...

[in ABC 7]"

In The US News: Iraq News

US warns Iraq's neighbours not to help al Qaeda commander >: "Last Updated 02/06/2005, 11:02:41 The US defence secretary, Donald Rumsfeld, is warning countries in the Middle East not to offer medical treatment to al Qaeda's man in Iraq, Abu Musab al Zarqawi.Mr ...

[in Radio Australia]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Judge Hears Arguments Over AP's Publication of Iraqi Photos: "SAN DIEGO (AP) - A federal judge heard arguments Wednesday on The Associated Press' request to dismiss a lawsuit that claims the wire service violated copyright and privacy laws by publishing photos o...

[in Tampa Bay Online]"

In The US News: Iraq News

2005-06-01T16:52:00.000-07:00

Iraqi Civilian Deaths in May Increase: "Print this story. Iraqi civilian deaths in May increased nearly a third from the previous month, a Health Ministry official said Wednesday.Separately, an Interior Ministry official said 151 polic...

[in Tuscaloosa News]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Car bomb hits Baghdad checkpoint, 15 wounded: "BAGHDAD (Reuters) - A suicide car bomb detonated at a checkpoint into Baghdad's international airport on Wednesday, wounding 15 civilians, the U.S. military said. The bomber blew up his vehicle amo...

[in Reuters]"

In The US News: Iraq News

U.N. Worker Axed In Iraq Oil Flap: "Joseph Stephanides is the first U.N. official to be publicly fired by U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan in the wake of an independent probe into allegations of corruption in the $64 billion oil-for-food program."

In CBS News: Iraq Crisis

Jerusalem wants to tear down Arab homes: "Eighty-eight homes in an Arab neighborhood of Jerusalem are marked for demolition to make way for an archaeological park documenting the disputed city's ancient Jewish origins, the engineer overseeing the project said Wednesday."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

Officials see terror threat from Iraq vets: "Veterans of the insurgency in Iraq pose such a threat, security measures will change Americans' quality of life, say former Bush anti-terror chiefs.

[in The US News]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Sentences cut for Iraq abuse soldiers: "The British Army has reduced the sentences of two soldiers convicted of abusing Iraqi civilians.

[in The US News]"

In The US News: Iraq News

2005-05-31T07:37:00.000-07:00

EU constitution 'is dead': "EU leaders have been warned by former commissioner Lord Kinnock to accept the French "non" vote meant that its constitution was now dead."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

4 Americans, 4 Italians dead in Iraq crash: "Four American and four Italian military personnel were killed in separate aircraft crashes, military officials said Tuesday, and Iraq's prime minister condemned the U.S. arrest of a top Sunni political leader."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

Terrorism Arrests in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Voice on audio tape claims to be al-Zarqawi, says he's in good health in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

U.S. Planes Hit Iraq Insurgent Strongholds: "AP Photo BAG122 By PAUL GARWOOD Associated Press Writer BAGHDAD, Iraq (AP) - The U.S. military nearly set off a sectarian crisis Monday by mistakenly arresting the leader of Iraq's top Sunni Muslim...

[in Guardian]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Iraq to cut power subsidies: "The Iraqi government may decrease subsidies for fuel and electricity, despite a severe shortage of both in the country, according to Electricity Minister Mihsen Shalash. The government blamed shortage...

[in AME Info]"

In The US News: Iraq News

27 killed in Iraq attacks >: "Last Updated 31/05/2005, 08:27:40 At least 27 people have died in a double suicide attack south of the Iraqi capital, Baghdad.Police say two bombers blew themselves up in a crowd of about 500 former ...

[in Radio Australia]"

In The US News: Iraq News

â??Things are getting worse by the day.â??: "The mayhem continues in Iraq, with today at least 40 people dead, including five US soldiers in Diyala province as the meltdown of the failed US-led occupation continues.

Two suicide bombers detonated themselves after walking into a crowd of police officers in Hilla, south of Baghdad. The policemen were demonstrating outside the mayorâ??s office to protest a government decision to disband their Special Forces unit."

In Electronic Iraq

Iraq Islamic leader held and freed: "U.S. forces in Baghdad Monday detained Iraqi Islamic Party Secretary-General Mohsen Abdel Hamid and his sons for several hours, then released them.

[in The US News]"

In The US News: Iraq News

2005-05-21T08:55:00.000-07:00

Iraq War News
Hamas militant group agrees to end attacks: "The Hamas militant group has agreed to halt mortar and rocket fire on Jewish settlements in the Gaza Strip, a deal meant to save a truce threatened by three consecutive days of violence, the Palestinian interior ministry said Saturday."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

Sun has published more Saddam snaps: "The Sun has published new prison photos of Saddam Hussein's top lieutenants, a day after showing the toppled Iraqi dictator in his underpants in jail."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

Pictures of Saddam in skivvies raise ruckus: "WASHINGTON : The publication on Friday of photographs of Saddam Hussein wearing only underwear in his cell in Iraq led the Bush administration on Friday to open an investigation into how the pict...

[in Deseret News]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Iraqi leaders call for restraint: "SUNNI and Shiite clerics have called for restraint as sectarian tensions rise, and Iraqi officials suggest Saddam Hussein might go on trial within a month. All occurred amid the release by a Britis...

[in The Daily Telegraph]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Paper Prints More Photos of Saddam in Jail: "A British tabloid published more revealing photographs of Saddam Hussein in U.S. custody on Saturday, a day after it ran a front-page picture of the former Iraqi leader naked except for his underwear."

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Abu Ghraib prison attacked by insurgents: "Five detainees were wounded in an insurgent rocket attack on Iraq's Abu Ghraib prison Friday.

[in The US News]"

In The US News: Iraq News

U.S. casualty count in Iraq over 1,600: "The Iraq war and occupation has claimed over 1,623 troops, including 1,244 killed in action so far, according to the Pentagon's latest numbers.

[in The US News]"

In The US News: Iraq News

2005-05-16T09:24:00.000-07:00

Iraq War News
More bodies found in Iraq, total up to 45: "Three Iraqis were found shot dead near a Baghdad dam on Monday and a slain Iraqi Kurd was left in a garbage dump in northern Iraq, raising the number of bodies found in recent days to 45. The government vowed to find those responsible, saying insurgents were seeking to exploit sectarian rivalries."

In JuneauEmpire.com: Associated Press

Rice praises creation of Iraqi cabinet: "Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice says the new multiethnic government of Iraq deserves credit for organizing a working Cabinet three months after landmark elections in January, not blame for taking so long."

In JuneauEmpire.com: Associated Press

Newsweek apologizes for Quran story errors: "In an apology to readers this week, Newsweek acknowledged errors in a story alleging U.S. interrogators at Guantanamo Bay desecrated the Quran. The accusations, which the magazine vowed to re-examine, spawned protests in Afghanistan that left 15 dead and scores injured."

In JuneauEmpire.com: Associated Press

2005-04-23T07:37:00.000-07:00

Milbloggers et all
MilBloggers,

The Department of North Carolina: Veterans of Foreign Wars together with the Departments of Virginia, Delaware, Missouri and Wyoming are pleased to announce that our new Military WebCOM Video Conferencing Program for our soldiers and their families is ready for Beta Testing. Our program will enable a Solider and a significant other to communicate with audio/video via the Internet at no cost.

National VFW Commander John Furgess has offered to inaugurate the program by placing the first call to the troops.

What we need are volunteers presently stationed in Iraq or Afghanistan with the "right stuff" a computer, Internet connection , a web cam and the ability to be available today April 23 at 7:30pm Eastern Standard Time.

The VFW through programs like its Operation Uplink has always demonstrated its support in assisting military families in staying connected. This new Departmental program will only strengthen this dedicated effort.

If you can support our efforts or have any questions please e-mail vfwwebcom@gmail.com or call Ross Myers or Tara Sue Clark at (336) 235-2393. Thank you.

Yours in Service,

Ross Myers

2005-04-08T16:31:00.000-07:00

Iraq War News
Gunmen fire on Iraq cleric's supporters: "Gunmen fired on supporters of radical Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr on Friday, killing one person and wounding two others as they made their way to protests planned for the second anniversary of Baghdad's fall to U.S.-led troops."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

Egypt blast raises concerns of insurgency: "Bloodstains remained among the jewelry and souvenir shops in one of Cairo's main tourist bazaars Friday, a day after a bomb blast killed three people, including an American, and raised worries about a revival of Islamic militant attacks on foreigners that devastated Egypt's economy in the 1990s."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

U.S. military: Cameraman detained in Iraq: "A cameraman carrying CBS press credentials was detained in Iraq earlier this week on suspicion of insurgent activity, the U.S. military said Friday."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

4 Iraqi children killed: "(04-08) 09:03 PDT BAGHDAD, Iraq (AP) -- Four children collecting trash were killed Friday by a homemade bomb in Baghdad, and masked gunmen killed an Iraqi Army officer in a restaurant in the southern...

[in San Francisco Chronicle]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Iraq's President Expects Constitution by August: "By Mariam Karouny BAGHDAD (Reuters) - Iraq's new president, veteran Kurdish leader Jalal Talabani, said Friday that lawmakers will meet a mid-August deadline for writing a constitution despite week...

[in Reuters]"

In The US News: Iraq News

U.S. says detained Iraqi women were not held hostage: "The U.S. military said on Friday two Iraqi women detained for six days had been held on suspicion of complicity in insurgent attacks, not used as hostages to pressure fugitive male relatives to surrender."

In San Diego Union-Tribune: In Iraq

U.S. growers sell rice to Iraq, once their top market: "After trying for more than a year, American rice growers are finally selling rice to Iraq. Iraq purchased 60,000 metric tons of U.S. rice, the Agriculture Department said Thursday. Based on average price in the region, the sale could be worth $10 million to $19 million, depending on the type of rice and other factors."

In San Diego Union-Tribune: In Iraq

Arab leaders congratulates Talbani on election as president of Iraq: "Arab leaders congratulates Talbani on election as president of Iraq Regional-Iraq, Politics, 4/8/2005 Arab leaders sent congratulations to Jalal Talabani who was elected as a new interim president...

[in Arabic News]"

In The US News: Iraq News

2005-03-04T09:36:00.000-08:00

GUNNER PALACE | Some war stories will never make the nightly news.

2005-02-11T12:05:00.000-08:00

Blckfive asks for our help
Hi MilBlogs and Friends-

Eason Jordan, the Chief News Executive of CNN recently made statements

at the World Economic Forum in Davos, where he accused American

servicemen of intentionally targeting and killing journalists in Iraq.

These are serious charges that should not have been made without

supporting evidence, which he did not provide.

American servicemen and women are risking their lives daily and it is

wholly inappropriate for a man of his stature and influence to make

baseless claims in front of an international audience. As an

experienced journalist, he fully understands the impact of his words

and the effects on his audience. Mr. Jordan has a past history of

making such statements.

I would request that you take a look at this issue which I believe the

MilBloggers and their supporters would have an interest in helping.

Easongate ( http://www.easongate.com ) has been created by some former

military men to gather signatures and engage CNN in order to create

change in

irresponsible media.

Our hope is that CNN will launch an investigation into Mr. Jordan's

past and recent history, and take appropriate action. We hope to

provide the means for the public to place pressure on CNN to act.

We need your help.

Please forward the EasonGate Petition (

http://gogman.is-a-geek.com/Easongate_Petition/sign.asp

) to your readers. Conservatively, we need 100,000 signatures to make

attract the attention of CNN's advertisers.

Any help is appreciated. We've got a lot of things in the works to

move this issue ahead in the media. Also, NZ Bear is listing the

blogs that refer to EasonGate -

http://www.truthlaidbear.com/easongate.php .

Be sure to send me a link if you write about EasonGate.

Please don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.

Regards,

Matt

Blackfive

http://www.blackfive.net

2005-02-02T08:17:00.000-08:00

2005-01-02T07:28:00.000-08:00

Iraq War News
Sunni Marginalization Risks Worsening Iraq Turmoil: "Only four weeks before crucialelections, sectarian divisions threaten to worsen Iraq'sunrest, with majority Shi'ite Muslims poised for politicaldominance and many Sunni Arabs boycotting the polls or tooafraid to vote."

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Suicide Bomber Kills 21 Iraqi Troops: "A suicide car bomb hit a bus carryingIraqi National Guards on Sunday, killing 22 people in thedeadliest attack of its kind in nearly four months on Iraqiscooperating with U.S. forces to secure a Jan. 30 election."

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Insurgent attacks in Iraq usher in New Year (Chicago Tribune): "Chicago Tribune - The new year opened in Iraq with the same death and dismay that brought 2004 to a close: Attacks on and assassinations of Iraqi security forces and civilians targeted for working with the interim government or its U.S. military backers."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

Car Bomb Explosion Kills 18 Iraqi Troops: "A suicide attacker detonated a car bomb north of Baghdad on Sunday, killing 19 Iraqis â?? all but one of them National Guards â?? in another strike against Iraqis cooperating with American forces, the U.S. military said. Four Iraqi policemen were killed in a separate attack."

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

17 die in Iraqi blast: "Baghdad - Nineteen people were killed in a car bomb attack on Sunday on a bus carrying members of the Iraqi national guard near the town of Balad, north of

[in News24]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Wartime blogs serve as dispatches from the front: ""The day before yesterday a big bomb exploded in Baghdad (Iraq) in Al-Rabee Street near my house," the Web log, or blog, reads.

[in DetNews.com]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Suicide bomb on national guard bus kills 19 as bloodshed greets Iraq in 2005: "Nineteen people were killed in a suicide car bomb attack on a bus carrying members of the Iraqi national guard near a US military base north of Baghdad, the US army said, as Iraqi insurgents made a bl...

[in Turkish Press]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Tories criticise jail sentence plan: "New legislation will put pressure on the courts to ration jail sentences, the Conservatives claimed."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

Eleven Iraqi soldiers and one civilian killed in car bomb ...: "BAGHDAD, Iraq The US says 12 people including eleven Iraqi national guard troops have been killed in a car bombing. A military spokesman

[in WSTM-TV]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Report set to criticise police: "Britain's police forces will face severe criticism in a think-tank report to be published next week."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

Lowell soldier's job: Train Iraqi soldiers to be the best: "10-person Green Beret squad, but he played a critical role: As a weapons and tactics specialist, Ryan was in charge of training dozens of Iraqi National Guard

[in Lowell Sun]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Car bomb kills 19 Iraqis north of Baghdad as officer, Shiite ...: "At least 19 people were killed Sunday in a suicide car bomb attack on a bus carrying members of the Iraqi national guard near a US military base north of

[in Al-Bawaba]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Lejeune Marines will head to Iraq with better armor: "CAMP LEJEUNE -- Marines who deploy to Iraq this year will have improved armor on their Humvees, an upgrade that has nothing to do with the recent criticism of Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld, the ...

[in News Observer]"

In The US News: Iraq News

in

Web video shows gunmen kill Iraq officers: "BAGHDAD, Iraq â?? Al-Qaida's arm in Iraq released a video yesterday showing its militants lining up five captured Iraqi security officers and executing them in the street, the latest move in a cam...

[in The Seattle Times]"

In The US News: Iraq News

in

in

US Reinforcements Arrive in Mosul: "

From the AFP via the ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation) :

A new contingent of US troops has arrived in Mosul to help boost security in the restive northern Iraqi city ahead of nationwide elections.
â??Elements of the 82nd Airborne Division arrived in Mosul yesterday in an effort to provide enhanced security and stability for the January 30 elections,â?? a military statement said.

â??The 82nd will operate under the command and control of Task Force Olympia within Multi-National Brigade North-west area of operations.â??

The senior US military commander for Iraq, General John Abizaid, said recently that some 6,000 to 8,000 new troops would be deployed in Mosul ahead of the legislative vote.

"

In Command Post: Irak

US Soldier Killed by Roadside Bomb: "

From Reuters via The Australian :

A roadside bomb blast killed one US soldier and wounded another north of Baghdad yesterday, the American military said today.

"

In Command Post: Irak

Twenty-two Iraqi soldiers, policemen killed in separate attacks in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

2005-01-01T09:24:00.000-08:00

Iraq War News
Zarqawi group executes five Iraqi national guards: video: "The group of Al-Qaeda operative Abu Musab al-Zarqawi aired a video on the Internet purporting to show the execution of five members of the Iraqi national guard in the militant stronghold of Ramadi."

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Three Roadside Bombs Target Iraq Troops: "At least three roadside bombs targeted Iraqi security troops Saturday, a day after Prime Minister Ayad Allawi warned Iraq's neighbors to crack down on insurgents infiltrating from their territory, saying that Iraq's patience was wearing thin."

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

On radio, Democrat says troops in Iraq deserve more support in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

in

Suicide Car Bomber Kills Seven in Iraq's North: "By Sabah al-Bazee BAIJI, Iraq (Reuters) - A suicide car bomber killed seven people, five of them Iraqi National Guards, near the northern town of Baiji Friday, as the insurgent campaign to wreck th...

[in Reuters]"

In The US News: Iraq News

in

Iraq's 'Mrs. Anthrax' Has Cancer: "web sites ) refused to comment on the report that Huda Salih Mahdi Ammash has cancer. "I am not able to discuss the health condition of our detainees," said Lt. Col. Barry Johnson. "Certainly we hav...

[in Yahoo]"

In The US News: Iraq News

US troops see progress in Afghanistan, grateful not in Iraq for Christmas: "US troops see progress in Afghanistan, grateful not in Iraq for Christmas KABUL, Dec 25 (AFP) - "There but for the grace of God go I," is a common refrain among US troops stationed in Afghanistan for ...

[in General Sources]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Time is ticking away for Iraq, UAE paper: "Dec 31, 2004 - 10:29 - Time is ticking away for Iraq, UAE paper ABU DHABI, 31 Dec. 04 (WAM)--A UAE paper today commented on the current cycle of violence in Iraq, saying before criticising others for ...

[in Emirates News Agency]"

In The US News: Iraq News

in

A Daily Look at U.S. Iraq Military Deaths: "web sites ) declared that major combat operations in Iraq had ended, 1,190 U.S. military members have died, according to AP's count. That includes at least 933 deaths resulting from hostile action, ac...

[in Yahoo]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Allawi warns Iraq's neighbors: "Baghdad, Iraq - Prime Minister Ayad Allawi made an unusually strong warning to Iraq's neighbors to crack down on insurgents infiltrating from their territory, saying Friday that Iraq's patience is wea...

[in Denver Post]"

In The US News: Iraq News

2004-12-31T06:19:00.000-08:00

Iraq War News
Iraq's insurgents grow proficient in violence: "Washington - By key measures of the level of insurgent violence against American forces in Iraq - numbers of dead, wounded and insurgent attacks - the situation has grown worse since summer. While tho...

[in Denver Post]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Parliament deadlock delays approval on extended SKorean mission in Iraq: "Photo: AFP SEOUL (AFP) - Opposition lawmakers put up a human wall in parliament, delaying approval to extend the deployment of South Korean troops in Iraq. Praliamentary work was paralized when doze...

[in AFP via Yahoo]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Schofield Soldiers Return From Iraq: "WHEELER ARMY AIRFIELD, Oahu, Hawaii -- More than 100 Schofield Barracks soldiers returned Thursday morning from a nearly yearlong deployment to Iraq.

[in The Hawaii Channel]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Militants warn Iraqis to shun elections: "BAGHDAD, Iraq (AP) - Three militant groups released a statement saying democracy is un-Islamic and warned Iraqis that if they vote in Jan. 30 elections they risk being attacked."

In Modesto Bee: Iraq

1ST ID SOLDIERS DETAIN 49 SUSPECTS DURING OPERATION POWDER RIVER in CENTCOM: News Release

City Plans a Texas-Size Send-Off for Guard Troops Headed to Iraq: "WACO, Texas â?? Not far from the ranch where President Bush is spending the holidays, the impact of the war in Iraq is being driven home in this city of 113,000."

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

US troops see progress in Afghanistan, grateful not in Iraq for Christmas: "US troops see progress in Afghanistan, grateful not in Iraq for Christmas KABUL, Dec 25 (AFP) - "There but for the grace of God go I," is a common refrain among US troops stationed in Afghanistan for ...

[in General Sources]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Rebels attack Iraqi security forces: "BAGHDAD, Iraq -- Insurgents launched multiple attacks on Iraqi police across the dangerous Sunni Triangle on Tuesday, killing 24 people -- including 19 policemen -- a day after the major Sunni Muslim ...

[in Casper Star Tribune]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Iraq needs $55 billion for reconstruction: "DUBAI - Iraq has estimated a cost of approximately $55 billion for the reconstruction of the country for 2005-2007, said Dr Mehdi Hafedh, minister of planning and development cooperation and chairman ...

[in Business Times]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Mortar strike sets fire to Iraqi oil refinery: "Baghdad - A mortar strike set fire to Baghdad's Dura oil refinery on Thursday night, an interior ministry official said. Baghdad firefighters were struggling to put out the blaze and called for hel...

[in IOL]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Bush touts Iraqi election: "CRAWFORD, Texas (AP) -- President Bush on Wednesday denounced Osama bin Laden's call to boycott the Iraqi elections, saying the balloting offers a choice between free expression and a "dark vision of ...

[in Casper Star Tribune]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Turkish Truck Driver Killed In Iraq: "SAMARRA (AA) - A Turkish driver was killed in northern part of Iraq, sources said on Wednesday. The driver was killed in an ambush near Bidiyah town, south of Samarra. He could not be identified yet. ...

[in Turkish Press]"

In The US News: Iraq News

in

2004-12-30T06:38:00.000-08:00

Iraq War News
in

Religious or secular government?: "Top Shiite Muslim leaders, who are expected to wield the most power after next month's parliamentary elections, are locked in a fierce dispute over whether the new Iraq should be a constitution-based democracy or an Iranian-style state in which clerics reign supreme."

In Kansas.com: Iraq

Iraq May Set Aside Seats for Sunnis: "CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq - Iraq's electoral commission is considering setting aside seats in the country's national assembly for Sunni Arab politicians and other

[in Washington Post]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Iraqis to stay on at bases: "AMP FALLUJAH, Iraq -American commanders are fully aware that Iraq's insurgents exploit their policy of employing locals on US military bases but insist the

[in Concord Monitor]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Two Terrorist Suspects Arrested in Irbil, Iraq: "Regarding intelligence that an Iraqi resistance group had ordered terrorist attacks on Korean troops stationed in the northern Iraqi town of Irbil, it has been

[in Chosun Ilbo]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Luring Iraqis to polls rates as very tough task: "Full-page newspaper ads remind Iraqis that "divided we fall." Posters are plastered all around Iraq's streets, even on US Army concrete barriers, listing

[in AZ Central.com]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Bremer gets medal after Iraqi looting: "Paul Bremer, in charge of Iraq after Mission Accomplished, dismissed the entire Iraqi Batthist army that could have been used to guard and rebuild that country

[in Sun-Sentinel.com]"

In The US News: Iraq News

The Perfect Candidate for Iraq: "More than 100 slates of candidates are in the running, but I know whom Iraq voters' choice should be. Iraq is running out of its own politicians.

[in Common Dreams]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Iraqi police ambushed; U.S. launches new attack: "Baghdad, Iraq - U.S. forces launched a new offensive Wednesday against insurgents in an area south of the capital dubbed the "triangle of death," while militants ambushed an elite Iraqi police unit in...

[in Denver Post]"

In The US News: Iraq News

New offensive launched south of Baghdad: "BAGHDAD, Iraq â?? U.S. forces launched a new offensive yesterday against insurgents in an area south of the capital after militants ambushed an elite Iraqi police unit in a Baghdad neighborhood kn...

[in The Seattle Times]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Dozens killed in Iraq clashes as two Lebanese kidnapped: "Click to enlarge BAGHDAD (AFP) - Pitched battles between US troops and Iraqi insurgents in strife-torn Mosul left at least 26 dead including one US soldier as two Lebanese businessmen were kidnapped...

[in AFP via Yahoo]"

In The US News: Iraq News

US troops see progress in Afghanistan, grateful not in Iraq for Christmas: "US troops see progress in Afghanistan, grateful not in Iraq for Christmas KABUL, Dec 25 (AFP) - "There but for the grace of God go I," is a common refrain among US troops stationed in Afghanistan for ...

[in General Sources]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Zarqawi aide arrested: Baghdad: "December 30, 2004 US-led forces in Iraq have captured a senior member of the al-Qaeda-linked network led by Jordanian militant Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, the Iraqi Government said today. Fadil Hussain Ahm...

[in The Australian]"

In The US News: Iraq News

in

U.S. Soldier Dies After Car Bomb Blast in Iraq: "MOSUL, Iraq (Reuters) - A U.S. soldier died in hospital Wednesday from wounds sustained in a car bomb attack on a patrol in the city of Mosul, the American military said on Thursday. Troops in Mosu...

[in Reuters]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Troops, Insurgents Clash In Mosul: "American troops and warplanes fought off insurgents launching and attack on a U.S. outpost in Mosul with a car bomb and explosives, the military said. At least 25 insurgents were said to be killed. One U.S. soldier died after the firefight."

In CBS News: Iraq Crisis

2004-12-29T07:03:00.000-08:00

Iraq War News
Blast Kills 28 During Police Raid in Baghdad: "BAGHDAD (Reuters) - A powerful blast destroyed a house in western Baghdad during an overnight raid by police, flattening several nearby buildings and killing at least 28 people including seven policem...

[in Reuters]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Iraq Govt. Mission: Luring Voters to Polls: "Print this story. BAGHDAD, Iraq - It seems like mission impossible: How will Iraq's interim government lure people to vote in the January election amid a deadly insurgency targeting polling stati...

[in Tuscaloosa News]"

In The US News: Iraq News

30 die as rebels hit Iraqi troops, cops: "An Iraqi man injured in a car-bomb explosion is brought into a hospital in Samarra on Tuesday. A suicide bomber detonated his car in the center of the city, wounding 10 people, including three childre...

[in Denver Post]"

In The US News: Iraq News

KRAKOW, Poland (AP) A Polish woman held hostage in Iraq...: "KRAKOW, Poland (AP) A Polish woman held hostage in Iraq for nearly a month was terrified of being rescued by US troops because she believed any military-style

[in Boston Globe]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Speeches, Iraq could recast Bush's image: "That distinction, which pollsters and analysts blame on public discontent over the war in Iraq, comes as Bush begins drafting two major speeches that could

[in Houston Chronicle]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Uneasy agreement in fight over role of clerics in new Iraq: "BAGHDAD, Iraq â?? Top Shiite Muslim leaders, who are expected to wield the most power after next month's parliamentary elections, are locked in a dispute over whether the new Iraq should be a cons...

[in The Seattle Times]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Al-Zarqawi's Group Claims Iraq Attack: "In a statement posted on an internet web site, al-Zarqawi's al-Qaida in Iraq said one of its members carried out the suicide attack near Abdel Aziz al-Hakim's office Monday that killed 15 people and w...

[in Yahoo]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Iraq Signs First Postwar Oil Field Contract: "The ministry awarded last week the contract to develop Khormala Dome oil field, northwest of the Iraqi oil rich city of Kirkuk, to Britain's D.P.S, Turkey's Avrasya, and Iraq's K.A.R. (In a stor...

[in Morning Star]"

In The US News: Iraq News

A Look at U.S. Military Deaths in Iraq: "web sites ) declared that major combat operations in Iraq had ended, 1,187 U.S. military members have died, according to AP's count. That includes at least 931 deaths resulting from hostile action, ac...

[in Yahoo]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Bin Laden Says Fighting in Iraq Muslims' Duty -- Web: "By Miral Fahmy DUBAI (Reuters) - An audio tape purportedly from al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden urged Muslims to wage holy war against U.S. forces and the government in Iraq, saying they would be c...

[in Reuters]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Abu Musab al-Zarqawi Claims Credit For Failed Assassination Attempt On Shiite Leader Abdel Aziz al-Hakim: "

Abu Musab al-Zarqawi's terrorist group, al-Qaida in Iraq formerly Tawhid and Jihad, has claimed credit for the failed assassination attempt on top Shiite leader Abdel Aziz al-Hakim that killed 15 and wounded 50. The statement was posted to an internet website.

Yahoo/AP

The group of Jordanian militant Abu Musab al-Zarqawi claimed responsibility Tuesday for the assassination attempt against the leader of Iraq's largest Shiite Muslim party that killed and wounded dozens of people.
"On Monday morning, one of the lions of the martyrdom seekers brigades, belonging to the military wing of al-Qaida in Iraq launched an attack in order to wipe out one of the symbols of treason for the Americans," the statement said.
It added that "We tell you Hakim that if one arrow missed you we have many more arrows."

Tipped by: Chad at In The Bullpen (Crossposted to The Jawa Report). Chad has more to say on this.

Originally posted at Diggers Realm

"

In Command Post: Irak

IRAQI SECURITY FORCES DEFEAT INSURGENT COORDINATED ATTACKS, MNF DETAINS 18 in CENTCOM: News Release

RESETTLEMENT UPDATE FOR FALLUJAH in CENTCOM: News Release

2004-12-27T05:55:00.000-08:00

Iraq War News
U.S. Soldier Killed by Roadside Bomb in Iraq: "BAGHDAD (Reuters) - A roadside bomb killed a U.S. soldier and wounded another when their patrol was attacked north of Baghdad overnight, the U.S. military said on Monday. The attack occurred in the...

[in Reuters]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Iraq Rejects U.S. Talk of Adjusting Vote Result: "By Luke Baker BAGHDAD (Reuters) - Iraq's election body rejected a suggestion in Washington it adjust the results of next month's vote to benefit the Sunni minority if low turnout in Sunni areas mea...

[in Reuters]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Top Iraqi politician targeted as FM suggests delaying poll in hot spots: "Click to enlarge BAGHDAD, (AFP) - A senior Iraqi politician escaped a car bomb attack that killed as many as five people as the country's foreign minister raised the possibility of delaying the vote...

[in AFP via Yahoo]"

In The US News: Iraq News

WHouse Proposes Guaranteed Sunni Role in Iraq-NYT: "NEW YORK (Reuters) - The Bush administration has been talking with Iraqi leaders about guaranteeing Sunni Arabs high-level jobs in Iraq's new government even if Sunni candidates fail to do well in ele...

[in Reuters]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Iraq May Set Aside Seats for Sunnis: "web sites )'s electoral commission is considering setting aside seats in the country's national assembly for Sunni Arab politicians and other groups if their supporters don't vote in the country's Jan...

[in Yahoo]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Suicide Bomber Kills 15 People in Iraq: "A suicide bomber detonated his car Monday at the gate of the home of the leader of Iraq's biggest political party, killing 15 people and injuring dozens, police said. The cleric was unharmed."

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Iraqi Shi'ite Leader Escapes Bomb; 13 Die: "A suicide car bomber hit one of thebiggest Shi'ite Muslim parties running in elections next month,killing 13 people but missing its leader -- hours before themost prominent Sunni party withdrew from the historic poll."

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Iraq Militant Group Posts Video of Mosul Attack: "DUBAI (Reuters) - Iraqi militant group Army of Ansar al-Sunna Sunday issued a video tape about the bombing of a U.S. army camp which killed 22 people, identifying the suicide bomber as Abu Omar al-Mus...

[in Reuters]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Iraq's Top Sunni Party Withdraws from Jan Vote: "Iraq's top Sunni Muslim party iswithdrawing from Jan. 30 elections, saying persistent violencewould keep people from voting in the Sunni north and west."

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

20,000 dead - and quake toll rising: "Rescuers piled up bodies along the tropical coasts of southern Asia as the death toll from the biggest quake in four decades that triggered killer tidal waves passed 20,000 people."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

More than 11,500 die in Sri Lanka: "The death toll from massive tidal waves that struck Sri Lanka's coastline leapt to more than 11,500 as thousands of soldiers and families searched for bodies a day after the disaster."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

Britons killed in tsunami disaster: "Four Britons are confirmed dead in the Asian tsunami disaster. One is in Thailand, one in Sri Lanka and two in the Maldives, the Foreign Office said."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

New tremor hits Indian islands: "A fresh tremor hit Indian islands far off the country's eastern coast, a day after massive waves triggered by an undersea quake killed an estimated 4,000 people in India."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

Israel releases 159 Palestinian prisoners: "Israel released 159 Palestinian prisoners Monday as a gesture to the new Palestinian leadership."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

A Look at U.S. Military Deaths in Iraq: "web sites ) declared that major combat operations in Iraq had ended, 1,185 U.S. military members have died, according to AP's count. That includes at least 925 deaths resulting from hostile action, ac...

[in Yahoo]"

In The US News: Iraq News

in

Top Iraqi General: Troops Willing to Fight: "web sites )'s criticism that some Iraqi government troops were unwilling to fight insurgents and have deserted the battlefield, saying the president had been misinformed.

[in Yahoo]"

In The US News: Iraq News

2004-12-26T05:52:00.000-08:00

Iraqi police see Syrian hand in Najaf bombing: "chief in Najaf accused the Syrian government Saturday of involvement in last weekend's deadly bombing that killed 52 people in the Iraqi Shiite pilgrimage city

[in Channel News Asia]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Ansar Al-Sunnah Army Gains Clout in Iraq: "web sites )'s regime in April 2003, Ansar al-Sunnah's first statement surfaced on the Internet, pronouncing itself "a group of jihadists, scholars, and political and military experts" dedicated to cre...

[in Yahoo]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Iraqis sell Americans' trash for treasure: "BAGHDAD, IraqSabir Hassan, a peddler who operates a stall in the Babal-Sharki market here, is among a growing number of Iraqis who have learned how to make a

[in Myrtle Beach Sun News]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Iraq militant group outshining rebels linked to al-Qaida: "BAGHDAD, Iraq -- The Ansar al-Sunnah Army has emerged from its roots as a little known militant group in the north to become one of Iraq's deadliest terror networks, capable of carrying out dramatic s...

[in The Seattle Times]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Bush Makes Christmas Eve Calls to Troops in Iraq: "WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Bush on Friday made Christmas Eve telephone calls to U.S. troops in Iraq to thank them for their sacrifice following a deadly suicide bombing at a U.S. base. Bush c...

[in Reuters]"

In The US News: Iraq News

U.S. tries to assure Iraq posts for Sunnis: "Individuals can be elected by receiving 1/275th of the vote. Any suggestion of delaying the elections beyond the scheduled Jan. 30 date because Sunnis are reluctant to vote has been knocked down by...

[in The Seattle Times]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Father, son bring piece of Wyo to Iraq: "The dummy is appropriately named Woody and dons a bucking horse logo."Some of us guys went out and started roping and pretty soon we had a bunch of guys," Dean said. "Now we have competitions on Sunda...

[in Casper Star Tribune]"

In The US News: Iraq News

General: Bomber Not With Iraq Nat'l Guard: "The suicide bomber who killed 22 people in an attack on a U.S. army base in Mosul was not a member of the Iraqi security forces but may have been wearing their uniform, the army's chief of staff said Sunday."

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Gunmen Assassinate Iraqi Police Officer: "Masked gunmen assassinated a high-ranking Iraqi police officer on Sunday in southwestern Baghdad and wounded his bodyguards, police said."

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Marines capture 2 Terrorist Leaders: "

From Reuters via the ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation) :

US marines say they have captured two leaders of a militant group linked to Al Qaeda ally Abu Musab al-Zarqawi in Iraqâ??s restive city of Ramadi.
They say the men, Saleh Arugayan Khalil, also known as Abu Obaida, and Bassem Mohammad Hazim, also known as Abu Khattab, were captured on December 8 and December 12.

The pair were picked up during sweeps of the mainly Sunni Muslim province west of the capital.

â??These individuals were cell leaders for a local Zarqawi-affiliated terrorist group that is operating in Ramadi and western Anbar province,â?? the marines said in a statement.

â??This group is responsible for intimidating, attacking and murdering innocent Iraqi civilians, police, security forces and business and political leaders throughout the Anbar province.â??
[â?¦]
The marines say the men detained in Ramadi led a group that had kidnapped and killed 11 Iraqi National Guards in recent months as well as planting bombs and smuggling foreign militants into Iraq to fight US-led forces.

Information from local residents had helped the marines capture several members of the group, which the statement named as the hitherto unknown â??Harun terrorist networkâ??.

â??Many foreign fighters were also detained,â?? it said.

â??The detainees have provided information regarding the involvement of other individuals who are actively recruiting and smuggling foreign terrorists.â??

"

In Command Post: Irak

Slayings across Iraq: "

Including at least one â??own goalâ??. From the AFP via the ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation) :

â?¦five Iraqis have been killed and another five wounded when a makeshift bomb exploded on a road frequented by US convoys in the volatile bastion of Samarra.

The Death toll described in a previous post has now been revised to 3.

A doctor at a clinic in Khan al-Nus, north of Najaf, says three Iraqis died and two have been wounded when a car bomb exploded in the path of a US military convoy, which escaped unscathed.
In a clutch of targeted assassinations, an Iraqi working as an interpreter for the US military and his wife were shot dead by gunmen near the northern city of Mosul.

Just north of the capital, gunmen mowed down a local council member and his friend, while another man died when the bomb he was planting on the side of a road near Balad exploded prematurely.

"

In Command Post: Irak

University Dean Slain by Gunmen: "

From Reuters via the ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation) :

Gunmen shot dead the dean of Baghdad Universityâ??s School of Dentistry on Saturday, the latest victim of post-war violence that has forced thousands of professionals to flee the country.
Hassan Al Rubaiei was driving along the western bank of the Tigris when gunmen pulled alongside and sprayed his car with automatic gunfire, a police official said.

Mr Rubaieiâ??s wife was injured in the attack.

The motive for the attack was unknown but violence has become a hallmark of academic life in Iraq with professors killed or threatened for their political views or administrative decisions.

The attacks have included professors who attempted to uphold the countryâ??s secular tradition and managers of universities and state companies who replaced former ruling Baath Party members.

"

In Command Post: Irak

Commander: Mosul bomber not Guardsmember in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

2004-12-18T07:33:00.000-08:00

Iraq War News
Iraqi Judges Start Quizzing Saddam Aides (AP): "AP - Iraqi judges on Saturday started interrogating Saddam Hussein's former defense minister and the notorious general known as Chemical Ali, who is accused of gassing thousands of Kurds in the 1980s, the lead judge said."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

'Chemical Ali' Opens New Stage in Iraq Trials (Reuters): "Reuters - Saddam Hussein's cousin and feared lieutenant Ali Hassan al-Majid, known as "Chemical Ali," and former defense minister Sultan Hashem appeared before an investigating magistrate on Saturday, an Iraqi judge said."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

Shiite poll showing raises Iraq concerns: "BAGHDAD, Iraq (AP) - A resounding Shiite victory in next month's elections will bring Iraq closer to Tehran, forming a "Super Iran" that could change the face of the Middle East, critics say."

In Fresno Bee: Iraq

Sailor dies on Gulf patrol: "A sailor serving in Iraq has died while on patrol in the Gulf."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

Iraqis Face Winter Shivering by Candlelight: "As if the daily struggle to dodgebullets and bombings is not enough, many Iraqis now face afreezing winter shivering by candlelight as persistent attackskeep the power out for more than 12 hours a day."

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Saudi Oil Giant Says Maintaining High Security: "State-owned giant Saudi Aramco said onSaturday it remained "on alert at all times" to secure theworld's biggest oilfields, after Osama bin Laden urgedmilitants to attack Iraqi and Gulf oil facilities."

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Officer arraigned in Iraq killing case: "By David Rising, Associated Press | December 18, 2004. BERLIN -- An Army officer was arraigned yesterday on charges of dereliction

[in Boston Globe]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Tareq Aziz ages in Iraqi jail: "counsel. Aziz, who studied English literature and briefly worked as a journalist, was born in the northern Iraqi city of Mosul.

[in Reuters]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Iraqis win death test case probe: "The families' lawyer said failing to adequately investigate had breached the Iraqis' human rights under the European Convention on Human Rights.

[in BBC News]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Iraqi rebels kill 3 foreigners: "Associated Press BAGHDAD, Iraq - Insurgents killed at least three foreigners on Friday in Mosul, a northern city that became a stronghold after Fallujah fell to U.S. and Iraqi forces. Militants also ...

[in Billings Gazette]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Iraqi woman killed at US checkpoint: "US soldiers have killed an Iraqi woman at a checkpoint in Kirkuk after the driver allegedly failed to stop as US contractors came under attack in Baiji.

[in Al-Jazeera.Net]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Embassy Identifies U.S. Man Held in Iraq: "The U.S. Embassy confirmed the name of an American kidnapped six weeks ago in a deadly attack in the Iraqi capital, and his family pleaded Friday for his release.

[in Yahoo]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Turkish embassy guards killed in Iraq >: "Last Updated 18/12/2004, 17:21:41 Attackers in Iraq have killed at least four Turkish embassy guards, on their way from Turkey to Baghdad.Turkish foreign ministry says they were killed near the north...

[in Radio Australia]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Iraq violence surges ahead of elections: "Several Turkish embassy guards, on their way from Turkey to Baghdad, were killed in an armed attack in Mosul, as Iraq braced for new violence ahead of January's historic elections.

[in Turkish Press]"

In The US News: Iraq News

2004-12-16T13:17:00.000-08:00

Iraq Today
Iraqi militants say they killed Italian: "BAGHDAD, Iraq (AP) - Iraqi militants said they shot and killed an Italian citizen after he tried to break through a guerrilla roadblock on a highway outside the insurgent stronghold of Ramadi."

In Fresno Bee: Iraq

Iraqi militants say they killed Italian: "Iraqi militants said they shot and killed an Italian citizen after he tried to break through a guerrilla roadblock on a highway outside the insurgent stronghold of Ramadi."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

Senior Iraqi official assassinated: "A senior Iraqi communications official was gunned down Thursday and several of his aides wounded as they drove to their Baghdad office, the BBC reported.

[in The US News]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Zarqawi thought to be hiding in Baghdad: "The U.S. military says Islamic insurgent leader Abu Musab al-Zarqawi likely has gone into hiding in Baghdad after losing his battle in Fallujah.

[in The US News]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Bin Laden hails attack on U.S. consulate: "Al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden has applauded the attack on the U.S. consulate in Jeddah last week in which nine people were killed, including four gunmen.

[in The US News]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Saddam, defense lawyer meet for 1st time: "Former dictator Saddam Hussein met with a lawyer for the first time since his capture a year ago, officials said. Insurgents, meanwhile, killed three paramilitary police and a government official in Baghdad."

In Kansas.com: Iraq

Navy SEALs Expanding Probe of Iraq Photos: "AP Photo BAG103 By SETH HETTENA Associated Press Writer SAN DIEGO (AP) - The Navy SEALs are expanding their investigation into recently published photographs that show freshly captured prisoners an...

[in The Guardian]"

In The US News: Iraq News

in

in

Saddam meets defense lawyer for first time since his capture a year ago: "Associated Press AMMAN, Jordan - Saddam Hussein met for the first time since his capture a year ago with a defense lawyer on Thursday, two days after Iraq announced it will soon bring top figures of ...

[in Billings Gazette]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Bush warns Syria, Iran from the consequences of interfering in Iraq: "Bush warns Syria, Iran from the consequences of interfering in Iraq Syria-USA, Politics, 12/16/2004 The US President George W. Bush has warned each of Iran and Syria from the consequences of inter...

[in Arabic News]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Iraq Awards First Post-War Oilfield Contracts: "By Khaled Yacoub Oweis BAGHDAD (Reuters) - Iraq's oil ministry has awarded the country's first post-war oilfield development contracts to Turkish and Canadian firms, an oil official said on Thursda...

[in Reuters]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Three Polish soldiers killed in Iraq: "Three Polish soldiers killed in Iraq Iraq, Military, 12/16/2004 Three Polish soldiers were killed in their helicopter crash near Karbala city to the south of Baghdad. The spokesman for the multina...

[in Arabic News]"

In The US News: Iraq News

in

in

IRAQ: Red Cross monitoring hunger strikers ahead of trials: "BAGHDAD, 16 Dec 2004 (IRIN) - The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is closely monitoring former Baath Party hunger strikers, who have complained about the legality of their detentions and that of future trials, an ICRC spokesman told IRIN in Jordan."

In IRIN: Iraq Crisis

IRAQ: Interview with Minister of Agriculture: "BAGHDAD, 16 Dec 2004 (IRIN) - Iraqâ??s Minister of Agriculture, Sawsan Ali Magid al-Sharifi, faces her biggest challenge yet - how to get the country's food sector moving again after years of international sanctions, free imported food under the former United Nations Oil-for-Food programme and hundreds of displaced farmers now living in other areas of the country. With a doctoral degree in animal breeding from Iowa State University in the United States and an understanding of the economic forces at work in Iraqâ??s impoverished economy, al-Sharifi told IRIN in an interview that she is ready for the task."

In IRIN: Iraq Crisis

IRAQ: New commission looking into endemic corruption: "BAGHDAD, 16 Dec 2004 (IRIN) - When guards at the Ministry of Housing and Construction were hired, they all had to pay a fee of around US $200 to get their jobs. Those who didnâ??t pay had their applications thrown away, said an anonymous caller to the hotline for the recently established Commission for Public Integrity (CPI)."

In IRIN: Iraq Crisis

IRAQ: Interview with UNDP head: "AMMAN, 16 Dec 2004 (IRIN) - Roger Guarda is the Officer-in-Charge for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Iraq, but is based in Amman for security reasons. In an interview conducted with IRIN just before his retirement, Guarda assessed the role of the agency in the country and the difficulties faced in implementing its projects from a distance. He also spoke of the priorities for the coming year and focus areas. Having served UNDP since its creation in 1965, Guarda said he was proud of what had been achieved so far, given the current situation."

In IRIN: Iraq Crisis

2004-12-05T11:03:00.000-08:00

Iraq War News
Insurgent attacks kill 21 in north Iraq: "BAGHDAD, Iraq (AP) - Gunmen ambushed a bus full of Iraqis working for the U.S. military, killing 17 civilians and wounding 13 in Tikrit on Sunday, while a car bomb and a gun attack killed four members of the Iraqi security forces elsewhere in northern Iraq."

In Modesto Bee: Iraq

U.S. general speaks out on new abuse probe in

2004-12-04T07:40:00.000-08:00

Iraq War News
Car bombs hit Iraq police post in

Two multinational force soldiers killed in Iraq-Jordan border bombing in

U.S. Aims to Boost Electricity in Iraq to 20 Hours in

Six Killed After Baghdad Car Bomb in

U.S. Airborne Troops Headed for Iraq in Major Buildup in

2,000 More Pa. National Guard Troops Heading To Iraq in

Roadside Blast Kills U.S. Soldier in Iraq in

A Look at U.S. Military Deaths in Iraq in

Three Charged in Iraq Abuse Face Hearings in

Observation Balloons Fly High in Iraq in

U.S. commander defends American troop increase in Iraq in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

NATO chief opens Iraq headquarters during snap Baghdad visit in

in

Philippines issues new warning against job-seekers heading for ... in

Iraqi elections critical, Hagel says in

Army Makes Training Base Feel Like Iraq in

in

in

in

Rebels return to Falluja: "The Christian Science Monitor reports that resistance forces are returning to Falluja even as U.S. forces conduct their final sweeps: "US forces sweep through one neighborhood after another, only to find insurgents popping up in 'cleared' areas." It looks like the U.S. is going to have to burn the whole village to save it. It's a good piece of embedded reporting, if such a thing is possible. The article concludes with a rather dramatic passage:"

In Alternet: War On Iraq

2004-12-02T07:18:00.000-08:00

Blasts hit central Baghdad, killing one: "BAGHDAD, Iraq (AP) - Several mortar rounds exploded in central Baghdad on Thursday, including two in the Green Zone, the enclave that houses Iraq's interim administration and several foreign embassies. At least one person was killed."

In Fresno Bee: Iraq

Writer describes dangerous Iraq highway: "BAGHDAD, Iraq (AP) - The driver barreled down the road from Baghdad International Airport, his eyes darting from side to side for signs of trouble. A few hundred yards ahead, a convoy of U.S. contractors stopped on an overpass. Armed men jumped from the vehicles - weapons at the ready."

In Fresno Bee: Iraq

Iraq violence continues...U-S to raise troop levels...Pedestrian deaths in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

U-S soldiers wounded in car bombing in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Attacks hit Baghdad...Sharon won't launch attacks...Thurmond resigns in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Troop levels in Iraq to rise: "The United States is expanding its military force in Iraq to the highest level of the war - even higher than during the initial invasion in March 2003 - in order to bolster security in advance of next month's national elections."

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

3 U.S. Soldiers Accused of Killing Iraqi in

Iraqi commander says 10 insurgents killed in

Iraq's oil industry loses billions due to attacks in

Iraq Neighbors Vow to Cooperate on Borders in

Electoral Process Faces Difficulty in Iraq in

Growing Up in War, Iraqi Kids Are Hopeful But Wary in

Lawyers Want Photos Thrown Out in Iraq Abuse Case in

Pearl City Marine Dies In Iraq in

Bush defends Iraq war, seeks Middle East consensus in

Iraqi president backs election date of Jan. 30 in

IRAQI POLICE SERVICE GRADUATES 66 FROM SPECIALTY TRAINING in CENTCOM: News Release

U-S Embassy orders diplomats not to use Baghdad's airport road in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

2004-11-30T06:02:00.000-08:00

Glance at U.S. Military Deaths in Iraq: "web sites ) declared that major combat operations in Iraq had ended, 1,116 U.S. military members have died, according to AP's count. That includes at least 872 deaths resulting from hostile action, ac...

[in Yahoo]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Arabs Press Iraq to Meet With Opposition: "web sites )'s neighbors, worried about low Sunni Arab turnout in the country's upcoming elections, are mounting a behind-the-scenes push to persuade the interim government to meet with opposition lead...

[in Yahoo]"

In The US News: Iraq News

More British troops could be sent to US-run zone in Iraq if needed: ""If we're asked to do it again and the situation makes sense, then clearly we're capable of doing it again," General Rollo told the BBC, referring to the redeployment of Britain's Black Watch regiment...

[in Yahoo]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Iraq log: 29 November 2004: "What is life like for ordinary Iraqis and others caught up in events? We are publishing a range of accounts here."

In BBC: Conflict with Iraq (UK Edition)

Marines Aided by Robotic Airplane in Iraq: "web sites ) sees the planes as an integral part of combat missions. Weapon systems are in the works that will share a common operating language so soldiers, ships, submarines, planes and satellites ca...

[in Yahoo]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Four national guards killed in car bomb in western Iraq: ""A car bomb exploded near a national guard checkpoint, killing four members of this force and wounding three more," local police chief Mojtaba al-Hiti said Monday. The local hospital gave the sam...

[in Yahoo]"

In The US News: Iraq News

N.C. National Guard soldier uses coffee skills in Iraq: "At the cafe, which opened in September, National Guardsmen from North Carolina are welcomed by eclectic music, the smell of gourmet coffee and some time to forget they are in Iraq.

[in Herald Sun]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Signal brigade soldiers head from Bragg to Iraq: "FORT BRAGG, N.C. -- About 500 members of the 35th Signal Brigade boarded airplanes headed for Iraq on Sunday, part of a wave of thousands of soldiers who are going to the Middle East in the coming wee...

[in Herald Sun]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Hundreds honor N.C.-based Marine slain in Iraq: "MARTINSVILLE, Va. -- Hundreds of friends, relatives and former classmates turned out Sunday to remember Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Demarkus Brown, and the military presented his mother with two Purple He...

[in Herald Sun]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Iraq troop level may remain at 600 if mission is extended, Hosoda says: "Iraq troop level may remain at 600 if mission is extended, Hosoda says If the government extends the Ground Self-Defense Force humanitarian mission in Iraq beyond the current Dec. 14 deadline, it wou...

[in Japan Times]"

In The US News: Iraq News

N.C. troops fight fear and fatigue in search for Iraqi attackers: "Two Bradleys filled with soldiers left the base at about 9:30 p.m. on Nov. 20, carrying reinforcements to join U.S. troops and Iraqi National Guardsmen already at the headquarters. In all, about 30 Am...

[in Herald Sun]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Iraq's election chief says he can't delay Jan poll: "Hendawi said he had not received a formal request for the elections to be postponed, though a petition organised by Pachachi and signed by the 15 parties is expected to be delivered to him soon. Pacha...

[in Express India]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Son's Iraq Ties 'Surprised' Annan: "(AP) Secretary-General Kofi Annan said he was "very disappointed and surprised" that his son had continued to receive payments until this February from a firm that had a contract with Iraq's oil-for-f...

[in CBS News]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Iraq vote date maintained despite deadly violence: "web sites )'s landmark January elections appeared on course, despite violence that has prompted delay calls, as an anti-rebel sweep south of Baghdad claimed its first victims and five US troops died i...

[in Yahoo]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Saddam Aides to Appear Before Tribunal Next Month: "LONDON (Reuters) - Some of Saddam Hussein's top lieutenants will appear next month before a special Iraqi tribunal set up to try them for crimes against humanity, Iraqi Deputy Prime Minister Barham Sa...

[in Reuters]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Soldiers tough out the hazards of Iraq: "Soldiers tough out the hazards of Iraq 'We see our body count but we don't see theirs. If we could the morale would be better ... You can't find the enemy'

[in The Star]"

In The US News: Iraq News

US takes 32 insurgent suspects south of Baghdad: "BAGHDAD: US marines said they killed several insurgents and took 32 suspects in a series of actions south of Baghdad overnight (NZT) that included a high-speed riverborne raid on suspected weapons dum...

[in Stuff]"

In The US News: Iraq News

US lets Canada bid for Iraq work: "US President George W Bush has said Canada will now be "eligible to bid" for reconstruction projects in Iraq. His offer to Canadian Prime Minister Paul Martin halts a controversial US policy of r...

[in BBC]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Close-Knit Town Copes With War: "(CBS) In a typical small town with the unlikely name of Paris, Ill., the toll of a faraway war strikes painfully close to home. Bagpipes set the tone of war's impact on its citizens. Five member...

[in CBS News]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Spy Ring At Gitmo?: "(CBS) Around this time last year, a U.S. Army chaplain and an Air Force translator were sitting in jail, facing the death penalty. Their crime: supposedly running a spy ring out of the U.S. naval b...

[in CBS News]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Giving Thanks In Iraq: "(CBS/AP) In a major culinary operation that took weeks of planning, military chefs served traditional Thanksgiving meals to approximately 140,000 servicemen and women stationed throughout Iraq. Tro...

[in CBS News]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Soldier From Grand Junction Dies In Iraq Fighting: "5:20 pm MST November 29, 2004 DENVER -- A solider from Grand Junction has died in fighting in Iraq. Staff Sgt. Michael B. Shackelford, 25, died Sunday in Ar Ramadi, Iraq. His unit was conducting a a ...

[in The Denver Channel]"

In The US News: Iraq News

'Adequate security is unachievable': "Gulf News Editorial, United Arab Emirates, November 28 "The call to postpone the Iraq elections is not just a constitutional problem. More than 15 groups ... have asked for a delay of six months becau...

[in The Guardian]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Local Hero Returns Home from Iraq: "Riverside Superintendent Larry Nowlin received a homecoming celebration today from his student body. He is considered more than just an authority figure to this school system. Evident by the standing ...

[in K8]"

In The US News: Iraq News

US To Raise Troop Strength In Iraq By 10,000-11,000 -NBC: "NEW YORK -(Dow Jones)- Military officials say the U.S. is planning to raise the number of American troops in Iraq by 10,000 to 11,000 to provide additional security as the January elections approach...

[in Morning Star]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Nightly News: Pentagon to increase troopsÃ?Â in Iraq: "Faced with the real threat of terrorist attacks during Iraqi elections next month, U.S. military officials tell NBC News the Pentagon is now planning to raise the number of American troops in Iraq by ...

[in MSNBC]"

In The US News: Iraq News

Iraq's Allawi to meet with Jordan exiles: "Prime Minister Ayad Allawi will travel to Jordan on Tuesday to meet with Iraqis outside the country as part of attempts to get as many Iraqis as possible to participate in upcoming elections, diplomats and Iraqi officials said."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

2004-11-26T08:40:00.000-08:00

Iraq War News
They won the battle, but their losses will haunt: "FALLUJAH, Iraq â?? 1st Lt. Edward Iwan was taking a welcome break. Resting in a parked Humvee, he scrolled down a flat blue computer screen, mounted to the dashboard."

In Kansas City Star: Iraq

Four UK staff killed in Iraq attack: "Four former Gurkha soldiers working for a British security firm have been killed in a mortar attack in Baghdad's Green Zone."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

U.N.: 3,000 Iran Kurds Cut Off From Aid (AP): "AP - Nearly 3,000 Iranian Kurds at a decades-old refugee camp in western Iraq have been left without police protection as residents and local security forces flee fighting in the area, the U.N. refugee agency said Friday."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

Insurgents at Fallujah claim to have Regrouped: "

From The Australian :

Insurgents in Fallujah have claimed in a statement that they have reorganised after a massive US-Iraqi onslaught against the rebel city and resumed their attacks.
â??After reorganising, the Mujahedeen resumed their attacks Wednesday with the aim of shattering the myth of the invincibility of the coalition forces, and the traitors and collaborators who are under the orders of Allawi and Naqib.â??
[â?¦]
Fridayâ??s Mujahedeen statement, posted on an Islamist website (www.al-moharer.net), claimed that clashes took place in northern Fallujah in recent days.

â??The Mujahedeen will teach a memorable lesson to the collaborators who sold Iraq and prove to Arab regimes that only the language of guns and martyrs makes a difference,â?? it said.

Historically, whenever one side talks about the â??Myth of Invincibilityâ?? of the other, it means theyâ??ve suffered nothing but an unending series of military catastrophes so far.

(Enemy Bluster)"

In Command Post: Irak

Top general thanks troops in Afghanistan: "Gen. John Abizaid pulled on a pair of plastic gloves and took his place behind a counter to serve steaming Thanksgiving food to U.S. troops Thursday. (USATODAY.com)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

US troops find at least 12 more bodies in Mosul (AFP): "AFP - At least 12 more bodies were found by US troops fighting insurgents in Mosul, bringing to 40 the number of grim discoveries in the northern city over the past week."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

Iraqi PM Allawi to visit Germany for Schroeder talks (AFP): "AFP - Iraqi Prime Minister Iyad Allawi is to visit Germany next week for talks with Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

IRAQ: IRCS delivered aid to Fallujah: "BAGHDAD, 26 Nov 2004 (IRIN) - After more than two weeks of conflict inside Fallujah, 60km from the Iraqi capital, Baghdad, the Iraq Red Crescent Society (IRCS) delivered aid to the heart of the city on Thursday."

In IRIN: Iraq Crisis

2004-11-19T06:22:00.000-08:00

Iraq Today
RAF jets escort Pakistan airliner: "Two RAF fighter planes were scrambled to escort a passenger jet towards a British airport after the jumbo's crew repeatedly failed to contact air traffic controllers."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

Bounties Offered on Americans in Iraq: "A portly Shiite cleric, Abu Qusai sheds his black robe for a training suit and exchanges his white turban for a baseball cap, an effort to mask his identity for a risky trip through what has become known as the "triangle of death." (AP)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Site: Zarqawi Group Beheads Two Iraqi Soldiers: "The group led by al Qaeda ally Abu Musabal-Zarqawi said it beheaded two Iraqi soldiers in broaddaylight in Mosul, a statement found on an Islamist Web site onFriday said. (Reuters)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Grim, Angry Rites as Falluja Buries Its Dead: "The urban battlefield of Fallujais disgorging its dead. Slowly. (Reuters)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Site: Zarqawi Group Beheads Two Iraqi Soldiers (Reuters): "Reuters - The group led by al Qaeda ally Abu Musab al-Zarqawi said it beheaded two Iraqi soldiers in broad daylight in Mosul, a statement found on an Islamist Web site on Friday said."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

French "Expert" condemns US "State Terrorism": "

From Islam Online :

Washington will win the military battle in the western Iraqi city of Fallujah but its strategic looses[sic] will certainly outweigh such a victory, said a French strategic expert.
Branding the US practices against the Fallujah residents as â??state terrorism,â?? Pascal Boniface, Director of the Institute for International and Strategic Studies [sic] in Paris, expected the onslaught to further fan anti-US feelings in the entire Islamic world.

Addressing a seminar organized by the Arab World Institute on Wednesday, November 17, Boniface said the cold-blooded killing of an unarmed, wounded Iraqi by a US soldiers in a Fallujah mosques was not an isolated incident.

He said the murder as well as the prisoners abuses in the infamous Abu Ghreib and Guantanamo Bay detentions demonstrate an established policy and doctrine.
[â?¦]
The French expert described the Fallujah offensive as a â?? strategic lossâ?? for the Bush administration.

The Americans would undoubtedly win the fighting but they would strategically lose the battle as they did with the Iraq invasion, Boniface said.
[â?¦]
The French expert considered the Fallujah operation as a new proof of American troubles in the Iraqis quagmire.

He refuted American allegations that the offensive was to eliminate terrorists from the city.

Boniface expected the onslaught to fan the already spiraling anti-US sentiments across Arab and Muslim countries and create more generations of those described by Washington as terrorists, not only in Iraq but in other parts of the world.

He added that the operation also killed stone dead the legitimacy of the planned January elections and its outcome.

The interim government lost credibility among Iraqis and Arabs who see it as a puppet in the hands of the US occupation forces, said the French expert.
[â?¦]
Boniface hailed Arab popular reaction to the Fallujah offensive.

He said that despite the absence of democracy and political pressure groups, the Arab public opinion is turning into a mighty force interacting with developments in Iraq and the Palestinian territories.

The French expert noted that the emerging force of the public opinion, motivated by the Arab satellite channels, is now seen by the west and the Americans as the official spokesman of the Arab world.

The well-connected Paris-based IRIS (Institute for International and Strategic Relations) is not to be confused with the highly regarded IISS, (International Institute for Strategic Studies).

(Axis of Weasels)"

In Command Post: Irak

Al Zaquawi HQ an Intelligence Windfall: "

Elaborating on a previous post, from Middle East Online :

The US-led assault on Fallujah has â??broken the back of the insurgencyâ?? in Iraq by taking away its safe haven, scattering operatives and disrupting their command networks, the top US marine commander in Iraq said.
Lieutenant General John Sattler said the city was secure 11 days after the start of Operation Dawn, but not safe. Heavy fighting was still erupting in some quarters of the city as marines and Iraqi troops clear buildings of holdouts.

â??Based on some of the records and ledgers weâ??ve been able to uncover, we feel right now that we have â?¦ broken the back of the insurgency and weâ??ve taken away the safe haven,â?? Sattler said.

The offensive would force the insurgents to set up operations in less familiar areas with untested allies, he added.

(Intelligence Reports)"

In Command Post: Irak

US Marine, Iraqi Soldier Killed in Fallujah: "

From Reuters via the ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation) :

The marine and soldier died during continuing mop-up operations in the former insurgent bastion, raising the coalition toll in the fighting to retake the city to 51 US dead and eight Iraqis, the top US Marine commander there said.
US-led troops continued to engage in sporadic battles against rebels in Fallujah after launching a major assault to wrest the Sunni Muslim city west of Baghdad from insurgents 10 days ago.
[â?¦]
Iraqi volunteers and US troops were able to clear 24 corpses from the battered city and evacuate five civilians.

The Iraqi Red Crescent said 150 families remained stranded.

From the New York Times :

The Department of Defense has identified 1,212 American service members who have died since the start of the Iraq war. It confirmed the deaths of the following Americans this week:
HEFLIN, Christopher T., 26, Sgt., Marines; Paducah, Ky.; First Marine Division.

QUALLS, Louis W., 20, Lance Cpl., Temple, Tex.; Fourth Marine Division.

WULLENWABER, Luke C., 24, First Lt., Army; Lewiston, Idaho; Second Infantry Division.

(Fallujah)"

In Command Post: Irak

Marine Intelligence Report warns against Premature Withdrawal: "

From The Age :

Senior US marine intelligence officers in Iraq are warning that insurgents will rebound from their defeat if planned cuts to US troop levels in Fallujah go ahead.
The rebels could thwart retraining of Iraqi security forces, intimidate local residents and derail January elections, the officers say.

They fear that despite the insurgentsâ?? heavy casualties in the week-long Fallujah battle, their numbers will continue to grow, there will be further guerilla attacks and fighters will foment unrest among Fallujahâ??s returning residents, using the idea that expectations for better conditions have not been met.

The warning is contained in a classified report prepared by intelligence officers in the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force last weekend as the Fallujah offensive was winding down. The leaked assessment was distributed to senior officers in Iraq, where one called it â??brutally honestâ??.
[â?¦]
The intelligence assessment offers a stark counterpoint to more positive assessments by military chiefs in the wake of the Fallujah operation, which they say completed its goals well ahead of schedule and with fewer Iraqi civilian and US casualties than expected.

Senior military officers in Iraq and Washington who have read the report cautioned that the assessment was a subjective judgement by some marine intelligence officers near the front lines and did not reflect the views of all intelligence officials and senior commanders in Iraq.

â??The assessment of the enemy is a worst-case assessment,â?? the senior military intelligence officer in Iraq, Brigadier-General John DeFreitas, said.

â??We have no intention of creating a vacuum and walking away from Fallujah.â??

A senior officer in Washington said the view from the tactical intelligence level had generally been more pessimistic than that from officers at the strategic level.

(Fallujah)"

In Command Post: Irak

French Casualties in Iraq: "

From the BBC :

Three Frenchmen have died fighting with insurgents against US-led troops in Iraq, reports say.
The men, all of Arab origin, were killed in the country over recent months as the insurgency has flared.

Two of the men were aged 19 and the third was 24 years old, a French official said.

Authorities estimate that around a dozen Frenchmen of North African or Arab background have travelled to Iraq to join the insurgency.

The men were identified as

24-year-old Tarek W, from Paris, killed on 17 September

19-year-old Redouane el-Hakim, killed on 17 July

Abdel Halim Badjoudj, 19, killed on 20 October.

Note that a handful of Australians, Britons and Americans were caught fighting for the Taliban in Afghanistan.

(Axis of Weasels)"

In Command Post: Irak

Al Sadr Aide, 104 Others Arrested: "

From the AFP via the ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation):

Iraqi police have arrested a senior aide to radical Shiite cleric Moqtada Sadr in the southern city of Najaf.
â??Sheikh Hashem Abu Raghif was arrested at his home Wednesday night after detainees were forced to confess that he had ordered torture against prisoners detained by the Sadr movement,â?? Sheikh Ali Smeism said.

Before it was ousted from Najaf after an August offensive led by the US army, the Sadr movement had established its own tribunals and jails in the holy city.

Meanwhile Iraqi police and national guards have detained more than 100 suspected militants in raids around Haifa Street, a rebellious Sunni Muslim stronghold in Baghdad.

In all 104 people were arrested, including nine who were suspected of having escaped from the US-led offensive against the rebel city of Fallujah over the past 10 days.

(Torture)"

In Command Post: Irak

Marine to stand court-martial in slaying of his alleged lover: "The court-martial of a Marine accused of killing a married woman with whom he allegedly had an affair is scheduled to begin Nov. 29."

In San Diego Union-Tribune: In Iraq

Al-Zarqawi command centre found: "US troops sweeping through Fallujah found what appeared to be a command centre used by followers of Jordanian terrorist Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, as a general declared the battle for the city had "broken the back of the insurgency"."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

Bodies of 4 Iraqis flown to US for autopsy--victims of videotape shooting? in IraqWar.info

Militants Try to Stir Arab-Kurd Violence (AP): "AP - Insurgents battling U.S. and Iraqi forces in the northern city of Mosul have been trying to drag the Kurdish minority into their fight and set off a sectarian war, Kurdish and Arab officials say."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

Marine commander shows pictures of insurgent weapons, hideouts in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Gehanna is Burning: "Smoke rises continually from the acres of garbage that fill the river bend in the Green Zone, US occupation headquarters, across the Tigris from our apartment. Apparently, with the security risks of dozens of garbage trucks entering and departing the Green Zone daily, someone decided to dump it all along the river, outside the concrete walls. It must be like the constantly burning â??Gehennaâ?? or hell that Jesus mentioned in the Sermon on the Mount. My memory is that Gehenna is an image of the valley below Jerusalem where the garbage was dumped and burned."

In Electronic Iraq

The Streets of Baghdad: "We had our daily car bomb today when a suicide bomber drove his car into a US patrol as it passed near the Yarmouk police station. Several Iraqis were killed, with no report yet on US casualties. I felt the rumble even though I was on a street far away from the blast-at least 5 miles distant. Walking and driving on the streets Baghdad I find myself in a sea of chaos. Traffic is mayhem for many reasons. The current fuel crisis being the lead cause. Lines at petrol stations stretch for miles at some of the stations. A common scene at these lines is that of people pushing their cars because they are already out of gas or to save what precious little may be left in their tank."

In Electronic Iraq

2004-11-14T06:46:00.000-08:00

Iraq War News
31 U.S. Troops Killed So Far in Fallujah: "The weeklong U.S. offensive to retake the insurgent stronghold of Fallujah has claimed the lives of 31 American troops and six Iraqi soldiers, a U.S. general said Sunday. (AP)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Falluja Residents Desperate for Food, Water, Aid: "No food. No water. No help. Asfierce fighting casts a pall of smoke over the rubble-strewnIraqi city of Falluja, thousands of Iraqi families remain cutoff from desperately needed supplies. (Reuters)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Bradley crew's shift: 19 hours in Fallujah shooting gallery (Chicago Tribune): "Chicago Tribune - After nearly 18 hours in the claustrophobic urban canyons that constitute the front lines of the battle for Fallujah, the crew of the lead Bradley Fighting Vehicle was cramped, weary and low on ammunition."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

6 Kurdish Militia Killed, 2 ING Slaughtered: "

From the New York Times :

In Mosul, 225 miles north of the capital, sporadic fighting erupted Saturday, but clashes were smaller than on Thursday, when groups of insurgents overran at least a half-dozen police stations, said Lt. Col. Paul Hastings, a spokesman for Task Force Olympia, assigned to control the northern region. Hundreds of policemen fled the guerrillas that day, and the Iraqi government fired the cityâ??s police chief on Friday.
Mosul has sizable numbers of Sunni Arabs, Kurds and Christians, and ethnic tensions have run high since the Americans invaded Iraq. It is clear that the Sunni Arabs are leading the insurgency here, while the Kurds and Christians are more sympathetic to the American forces.

A car bomb exploded next to a Kurdish patrol in the afternoon, killing at least six militiamen, witnesses said. The cityâ??s health bureau said that at least 25 people were killed and 62 wounded in violence on Thursday and Friday, though it was unknown how many of them were civilians and how many were guerrillas.

It is clear that the American-led forces were taken by surprise by the magnitude of the uprising. The Stryker Brigade, a light-armored mechanized unit based in Mosul, had to recall a battalion from the fighting in Falluja. The Iraqi government ordered four battalions of national guardsmen, all Kurds, to the city.

Up to 500 insurgents, far more than American and Iraqi intelligence had predicted, carried out the first big wave of attacks on police stations on Thursday by working in groups of 15 to 50, Brig. Gen. Carter Ham, commander of the Stryker Brigade, said in a telephone interview late Friday.

The general said he believed that the insurgency was being organized by former members of Saddam Husseinâ??s security forces.

The Iraqi Interior Ministry appointed a new police chief in Mosul on Saturday, and police officers were returning to the stations, some of which had been set afire, Colonel Hastings said. But the police were being confined to security duties at six sites, he added, because American soldiers might not be able to tell the real police from insurgents who could be roaming the city in stolen police uniforms or body armor.

In Al Wehda, a neighborhood of Mosul, insurgents slit the throats of two Iraqi National Guardsmen in the street, witnesses said.

â??When I was driving back to my house, I saw a huge gathering of people, so I stopped the car and went to see what was the matter,â?? said Muhammad Hazim, a resident. â??I saw a number of insurgents holding two Iraqi National Guard soldiers and reading a statement calling them traitors and collaborators with the enemy, and then they slaughtered them by slitting their throats and yelling, â??God is great!â?? â??

General Ham, the commander in Mosul, said the performance of the Iraqi policemen on Thursday had been â??very disappointing.â?? While raiding six or seven of the cityâ??s 33 police stations, the insurgents made off with up to 40 police vehicles, hundreds of weapons, handheld radios, computers, telephones, police uniforms and body armor.

(Mosul)"

In Command Post: Irak

US Soldier Killed in Baghdad: "

From the Times-Reporter :

The American military said that a U.S. soldier in Baghdad was killed by â??indirect fire,â?? probably referring to a mortar or rocket attack.

(Combat)"

In Command Post: Irak

For Iraqi Leader, Political Risks of Attack on Falluja Grow: "Rising public denunciation of the invasion of Falluja by prominent Iraqi groups has put Ayad Allawi's political support at risk when he needs it most."

In New York Times: World Special

Military hails attacks...Bridge to reopen....Palestinians move on in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Police chief says terror attacks have been thwarted in U-K in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Commander says U-S ground assault on Fallujah goes quicker than expected in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Fallujah offensive 'ahead of schedule': "The U.S. military's ground and air assault of Fallujah has gone quicker than expected, with the entire city occupied after six days of fighting, Marine Maj. Gen. Richard Natonski said Sunday."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

Weary GI's Endure Relentless Combat: "

From the Chicago Tribune :

Jump out. Kick in door. Spray machine-gun fire. Run to rooftop. Kill enemy. Jump back into armored vehicle. Move to new location.
Repeat.

So goes the battle for Fallujah as experienced Friday by the exhausted and bewildered soldiers of the 3rd Brigade of the Armyâ??s 1st Infantry Division. Flanked by Marines, the bleary-eyed troops led the southern push to corner die-hard Sunni Muslim insurgents who were the last obstacles to full American control of the city.

(Media Bias)"

In Command Post: Irak

U.S. Says Aid Convoy Can't Go Into Falluja Today: "An Iraqi Red Crescent aid convoywaiting at the edge of Falluja will not be allowed to enter thecity center on Sunday, a U.S. Marine officer said. (Reuters)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Fallujah falls...Body found...Elephants run amok in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Body of Western woman found: "US Marines have found the mutilated body of what they believe was a Western woman during a sweep of a street in central Fallujah."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

Fallujah's Chamber of Horrors: "

From the AFP via The Australian :

The body of a woman in her 60s, with her legs and arms cut off and throat slit was found today in the city of Fallujah but it was unclear whether she was a foreigner or an Iraqi, marines said.
The discovery was made as the marines moved through the south of Fallujah, hunting out the remaining die-hard rebels after a week of fierce fighting to regain control of the city.

An AFP photographer embedded with the marines said the woman had grey hair, was wearing a blue dress and her face was completely disfigured.

The marines said she appeared to have been on the street for about two days.

Sweeps of rubble-strewn neighbourhoods in Fallujah have already uncovered a grisly underworld of hostage slaughterhouses, prisons and torture chambers as well as the corpses of Iraqis who had been executed, marines say.

(Fallujah)"

In Command Post: Irak

3 Marines Die in Mined Building: "

From the AFP via The Australian :

Three Marines were killed yesterday by an explosion as they entered a booby-trapped building in central Fallujah, while another 13 were wounded in a firefight nearby, a marine officer told AFP today.
Of the 13, ten were seriously injured in the gun battle just south of the main road that cuts through the centre of the Sunni Muslim bastion, the officer said.

The latest deaths bring to at least 25 the number of US troops who have been killed in the fight for Fallujah, which was launched on Monday. Five Iraqi soldiers have also died along with more than 1000 rebels.

(Fallujah)"

In Command Post: Irak

Marines Tackle Last Redoubt: "

From Reuters via the ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation) :

Resistance has dwindled in the last rebel redoubt in Fallujah, US officers said, but explosions still shook the smoke-wreathed city as an Iraqi Red Crescent convoy waited nearby to distribute relief.
â??Two days ago they were coming out and fighting us. Last night they were running. It looks like we are about to break their will,â?? Captain Robert Bodisch, a US tank company commander, told Reuters. â??I donâ??t think it will be long now.â??

Fighting was focused mainly on the Shuhada district, viewed by US forces as a stronghold for foreign fighters led by Jordanian Al Qaeda ally Abu Musab al-Zarqawi.

But a Reuters reporter with the Red Crescent convoy at Fallujahâ??s main hospital by the Euphrates river on the western edge of the city said explosions had been sending up plumes of smoke in central and southern areas since 6:00am (local time).

(Fallujah)"

In Command Post: Irak

2004-11-13T07:14:00.000-08:00

Iraq War News
Iraqi official says 1,000 insurgents killed in Fallujah in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Insurgents captured in Fallujah...Bush sees 'progress' in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Aid 'enters embattled Iraqi city': "Iraqi Red Crescent officials say a convoy of emergency supplies has entered the war-torn city of Falluja."

In BBC: Conflict with Iraq

Eyewitness: Ghost city calls for help: "An Iraqi reporter in Falluja describes the desperation and despair of its remaining inhabitants, hanging on for help as US forces battle insurgents."

In BBC: Conflict with Iraq

U.S. Troops Attack Holdouts in Fallujah: "Backed by tanks and artillery fire, U.S. troops launched a major attack Saturday against insurgent holdouts in southern Fallujah, hoping to finish off resistance in what had been the major guerrilla bastion of central Iraq. (AP)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Iraq say 'mission accomplished' in Fallujah, 1,000 rebels killed: "The military operation to regain control of Fallujah has ended and there are just "malignant" pockets of resistance left to clear up, with more than 1,000 rebels killed, Iraq's national security advisor said. (AFP)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

in

Jailed Palestinian wants to succeed Arafat: "Imprisoned uprising leader Marwan Barghouti has decided to run for president in upcoming Palestinian elections, a source close to the popular politician said Saturday."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

Black Watch net bomb suspects: "Black Watch troops have snared two suspected suicide bombers after a four-hour firefight with a mob of insurgents and a dramatic helicopter chase south of Baghdad."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

Militants Take Control in Parts of Iraq's Mosul (Reuters): "Reuters - Insurgents were in charge of some areas of south and western Mosul on Saturday, holding two police stations and manning road blocks, as Iraq's third largest city appeared to slide out of U.S. and Iraqi control."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

Three more Sunni clerics arrested by Iraqi forces in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

COVERAGE RUNDOWN WEEKEND in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Aid agencies see possible Fallujah crisis: "BAGHDAD, Iraq (AP) - Iraqis trapped in Fallujah face a humanitarian disaster unless Iraqi and U.S. authorities allow food, water and medicine into the besieged city, aid agencies said Friday."

In Fresno Bee: Iraq

Aid on way to embattled Falluja: "Relief trucks are heading towards the war-torn Iraqi city of Falluja - but they do not have permission to enter."

In BBC: Conflict with Iraq

2004-11-10T06:30:00.000-08:00

Iraq War News
Allawi Relatives Kidnapped: "A cousin and at least one other relative of Iraqi Prime Minister Ayad Allawi have been kidnapped in Baghdad and may be threatened with beheading. In Fallujah, the battle continues; so far the dead includes ten GIs, two Iraqi soldiers, and 71 rebels."

In CBS News: Iraq Crisis

U.S. Forces Hold 70 Percent of Fallujah: "

American forces battled through boobytrapped lanes and alleys Wednesday in a stunningly swift advance, taking control of 70 percent of Fallujah and bottling up enemy fighters along a strip of territory flanking the main east-west highway that bisects the rebel bastion.
The military said at least 71 militants had been killed as of the beginning of the third day of intense urban combat, with the casualty figure expected to rise sharply once U.S. forces account for insurgents killed in airstrikes.

Read moreâ?¦

Good analysis here. Scroll down to previous entries as well.

(Fallujah)"

In Command Post: Irak

Top Islamic Cleric at Arafat's bedside: "A top Islamic cleric rushed from the West Bank to Yasser Arafat's hospital bedside Wednesday in what an aide to the Palestinian leader called the "final phase" of his life."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

Palestinian leadership holds meeting: "The Palestinian leadership met Wednesday to discuss arrangements for the funeral of Yasser Arafat, who remained in a deep coma in a Paris hospital, officials said."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

Attacks continue elsewhere in Iraq in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Battle rages in centre of Falluja: "Rebel losses in Falluja are said to be in the hundreds as US marines fight their way into a city in ruins."

In BBC: Conflict with Iraq (UK Edition)

Rebels fight from mosques as US says 70 percent Fallujah taken (AFP): "AFP - Crouching in mosques, rebels traded fire with US troops in the heart of Fallujah as the military pushed south after seizing 70 percent of the Iraqi city on the second full day of battle."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

US marines expect to control Fallujah within 48 hours: "US marines expect to take complete control of the Iraqi rebel bastion of Fallujah within 48 hours if their assault continues on course, a US military officer said. (AFP)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

The perpetual gloom of Fallujah not easily forgotten by Marines: "Marine Staff Sgt. Robert Talley has a term for the sniper fire his platoon encountered in Fallujah this year: "Spray and pray.""

In San Diego Union-Tribune: In Iraq

Black Watch soldiers remain defiant: "Black Watch soldiers in Iraq are continuing their mission to stop insurgents escaping from the under-siege city of Fallujah."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

MNF-I PROVIDES CLOSE AIR SUPPORT FOR GROUD TROOPS in CENTCOM: News Release

Army regiments to be saved, says MP: "Scotland's historic Army regiments will "almost definitely" be saved from the axe under new proposals which the Government is set to adopt, an MP said."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

Baghdad under Curfew: "

From the AFP via The Australian :

IRAQâ??S interim government set a night curfew on Baghdad and its surrounding areas today following the bombings of churches and a city hospital that killed at least 16 people.
The measure was introduced after US-led troops fought their way into reached central Fallujah, the main stronghold of Sunni resistance west of the capital, on the orders of Iraqi Prime Minister Iyad Allawi.

The curfew was in force from 10.30pm until 4am and will remain in place until further notice, Allawiâ??s office said.

(Iraqi Government)"

In Command Post: Irak

Islamist Website Urges Iraqis to Stay Home: "

From The Australian :

A posting on an Islamist website has warned Iraqis to stay at home today in Baghdad and other cities or they would be â??putting their lives in dangerâ??.
The statement, in the name of eight known militant groups, said the unified â??Islamic resistanceâ?? would step up operations against the â??American enemyâ?? in retaliation for the US-led attack on the insurgent stronghold of Fallujah.

The statement urged Iraqis to stay at home today â??to avoid putting their lives in dangerâ??.

In Tikrit, Saddam Husseinâ??s hometown, insurgents distributed leaflets warning shopkeepers to close their stores indefinitely starting today to protest about the attack on Fallujah.

(Terrorism)"

In Command Post: Irak

Resistance Still Co-Ordinated, but Not Strong: "

From Reuters via the ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation) :

US tanks pushing into central Fallujah have met fierce resistance from well-organised insurgents who show no signs of giving up, US Marines said today.
[â?¦]
US infantry and tanks have punched deep into the city, and their Iraqi allies have made gains, but there are no signs Fallujah will come under their full control soon.
After a relative overnight lull, fierce fighting erupted again today.

A tank platoon that moved along Fallujahâ??s main street saw fighters who had just come under mortar fire climb onto rooftops and fire rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs) and machineguns.

â??There are lots of them. We took heavy fire,â?? Gunnery Sergeant Ishmail Castillo told Reuters.

â??They opened up on my tank. They donâ??t look like they are going to cave in.â??

Sergeant Castillo said his tank had killed six guerrillas and two Marines were wounded in fighting.

â??One of the Marines was hit in the head by RPG shrapnel,â?? he said.

Artillery barrages and machinegun fire echoed across the city as plumes of black smoke rose.

Tank platoon commander Lieutenant Joe Cash said the guerrillas were unleashing coordinated attacks.

â??They hit us from one area and then another right afterwards. There is in-depth organisation. There were small-arms attacks all night,â?? he said.

Running along Fallujahâ??s streets in groups of four or five, the guerrillas appeared in black clothes and headscarves or dressed in uniforms worn by Iraqi government forces, said Lieutenant Cash.

â??Some take off their fighting clothes, walk to a weapons cache and next thing you know they are shooting at you,â?? he said.

â??You see a guy walking in the street with normal clothes and he gives you a hard look and you just know he is one of them.â??

Lieutenant Cash said Marines found many weapons caches around Fallujah, including in mosques.

â??Weâ??ve reached the heart of Jolan,â?? Major Clark Watson said of a northwestern district of the Iraqi city where insurgents have long had a strong presence.

â??We have pushed through four square kilometres, but itâ??s too early to say we are controlling it,â?? he told Reuters.

â??That will take time because there will always be pockets of resistance.â??

Maj Watson, of the 1st Battalion of Marine infantry, said guerrillas were fighting back, but not as hard as expected.

â??It wasnâ??t as much as we thought it would be, but they have put up resistance,â?? he said.

(Tactical Reports)"

In Command Post: Irak

7 Coalition Troops Killed in Roadside Blasts: "

From the AFP via the ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation) :

Six Iraqi national guards were killed when two roadside bombs exploded minutes apart in northern Iraq, an Iraqi official said.
â??A roadside bomb exploded at 7:45 am in the path of a national guard patrol in Tuz, destroying a vehicle and killing four of its occupants,â?? said national guard general, Anuar Mohammad, noting that a commander was among the victims.

Twenty minutes later, a second bomb exploded near a patrol that had been dispatched to the scene of the first blast, killing two, Mr Mohammad said.

One US soldier was killed and another injured when their armoured patrol struck a roadside bomb north of Baghdad, the US military said.

â??A 1st Infantry Division soldier was killed and one injured after their combat patrol was struck by an improvised explosive device near Balad at about 4:20 am,â?? it said in a statement.

(Combat)"

In Command Post: Irak

Another Church Bombed: "

From Reuters via the ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation) :

An explosion outside a Catholic church in south-western Baghdad has wounded at least 35 people, police and hospital sources said.
The blast destroyed the outer wall of St Bahnamâ??s Church and set the house next door ablaze, witnesses said.

A doctor at Yarmouk Hospital said 35 people had been brought in from the blast in the capitalâ??s Dora district.

Police said a car bomb had detonated outside the church but witnesses said it appeared explosives were planted nearby.

Five churches were hit in a string of bomb attacks in October that seemed designed to intimidate the countryâ??s small but deep-rooted Christian community, already shaken by a series of church bombings that killed 11 people in August.

Iraqâ??s 650,000 Christians, mostly Chaldeans, Assyrians and Catholics, comprise about 3 per cent of the population.

(Terrorism)"

In Command Post: Irak

2004-11-07T06:09:00.000-08:00

Black Watch 'move into position': "Black Watch troops are reported to have moved into position ahead of the imminent US and Iraqi assault on the rebel stronghold of Fallujah, it was reported."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

Government backs Fallujah strike: "The Government has backed an assault on the rebel stronghold of Fallujah, insisting it is vital to stop Iraq becoming a terrorist safe haven."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

Israel prepares for Arafat's burial: "Israel has completed preparations for the ailing Yasser Arafat to be buried in the Gaza Strip, outlining plans to allow West Bank Palestinians to cross through Israel for the funeral and permitting enemy Arab leaders to attend, security officials said tod"

In Ananova: War In Iraq

UN concern for hostages' health: "Militants threatening to kill three UN hostages said talks were to begin with Afghan and UN officials, ten days after the victims were abducted at gunpoint on a street in the capital."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

Iraq declares 60 day state of emergency in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Iraq Emergency URGENT in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Fallujah wait continues...Insurgents attack...Crash site search in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Insurgents kill more than 50 across Iraq: "BAGHDAD, Iraq (AP) - Insurgents attacked police stations, gunned down government officials and set off bombs Sunday in central Iraq, leaving more than 50 people dead and more than 60 injured over two days in a dramatic escalation of violence as U.S. forces prepare to storm rebel-held Fallujah."

In Modesto Bee: Iraq

Afghan militants say talks on U.N. hostages underway in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Marines focus on Fallujah...France sends in reinforcements in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Iran says provisional nuke pact reached: "Iran and European nations reached a provisional agreement over Iran's nuclear program at talks aimed at avoiding a U.N. showdown, but all parties involved still must approve it, Iran's chief negotiator said Sunday."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

Iraqi Gunmen Kill Three Province Officials (AP): "AP - Three Diyala provincial officials were shot and killed by unknown assailants while traveling on Sunday to a funeral for a colleague killed earlier in the week, Iraqi officials said."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

2004-11-05T09:23:00.000-08:00

Iraq War News
Annan Warns U.S., Britain, Iraq on Falluja Assault (Reuters): "Reuters - U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan has warned the United States, Britain and Iraq that an assault on Falluja could further anger Iraqis and undermine planned January elections, U.N. officials said on Friday."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

Two U.S. Marines Killed in Volatile Western Iraq (Reuters): "Reuters - Two U.S. Marines have been killed and four wounded in action in a volatile area west of Baghdad, the U.S. military said on Friday."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

U.S. Tells Civilians to Flee Rebel Iraqi City: "U.S. troops urged civilians to fleeFalluja on Friday and launched air strikes on the rebel cityahead of an assault seen as critical to attempts to pacify Iraqbefore January elections. (Reuters)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Allawi Warns Fallujah Rebels of Deadline: "Insurgents killed two American Marines and wounded four others in fighting west of Baghdad, the U.S. military said Friday, as Iraq's prime minister warned that the "window is closing" for a peaceful settlement to avert a mass assault on the insurgent-held city of Fallujah. (AP)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Three British soldiers killed in Iraq; U.S. prepares for assault: "BAGHDAD, Iraq - Three British soldiers were killed and eight were wounded in a suicide bomb and mortar barrage south of Baghdad just days after they gave up the relative safety of southern Iraq for the more dangerous mission of helping U.S. troops in violence-wracked central Iraq."

In Modesto Bee: Iraq

Brothers In Arms: "On Friday's The Early Show, co-anchor Harry Smith reports on two soldiers who both lost their legs within hours of arriving in Iraq. They have helped and inspired each other through their long and difficult recoveries."

In CBS News: Iraq Crisis

Lawyer in Abu Ghraib case says official recommends against a court martial: "SAN DIEGO â?? A Navy SEAL accused of severely beating and abusing a prisoner at Abu Ghraib prison may avoid a court martial, partially because of problems with evidence in the case."

In kgw.com: Iraq News

Arafat in grave condition...Military targets Fallujah... in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

2004-11-03T06:59:00.000-08:00

Iraq War News
Gunmen slay Official : Car Bomb near Airport: "

From the ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation) :

The US military says a car bomb has exploded near a checkpoint on the road to Baghdad international airport.
They say there are reports of Iraqi casualties.

Earlier, gunmen killed a senior Iraqi Oil Ministry official as he left his home in the south of Baghdad.

"

In Command Post: Irak

4 Jordanian Truck Drivers Kidnapped: "

From the AFP via ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation) :

Four Jordanian truck drivers were kidnapped in Iraq, government spokeswoman Asma Khodr said late Tuesday, according to state-run Petra news agency.
Khodr did not say when they were abducted but said Jordan â??will seize the opportunity of the presence in Jordan (Wednesday) of Iraqi Prime Minister Iyad Allawi to make more efforts to win the release of the hostagesâ??, Petra reported.

The Government spokeswoman also said that two other Jordanians had come under fire in the volatile Ramadi region west of Baghdad.

â??One of them was injured and the other was (briefly) detained,â?? she said, citing their relatives.

"

In Command Post: Irak

in

in

in

Major's court-martial in Iraqi's death starts: "It was stiflingly hot, many of the Marines at Camp Whitehorse had been stricken with diarrhea, and to make matters worse, Maj. Clarke Paulus needed to get a cell cleared for a high-profile detainee, an Iraqi sheik."

In San Diego Union-Tribune: In Iraq

Iraqi kidnappers threaten CARE worker: "BAGHDAD, Iraq â?? The kidnappers of aid worker Margaret Hassan are threatening to hand her over to al-Qaida-linked militants notorious for beheading hostages unless Britain agrees within 48 hours to pull its troops from Iraq, an Arabic television station reports."

In kgw.com: Iraq News

Sharon's Gaza pullout plan faces key vote: "Prime Minister Ariel Sharon marched forward with his Gaza withdrawal plan on Wednesday, with parliament set to vote on providing compensation for the 8,800 settlers to be uprooted under the plan."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

Gunmen seize five in two Iraq kidnappings: "Gunmen abducted a Lebanese-American contractor who worked with the U.S. Army from his Baghdad home, Iraqi officials said Wednesday, while four Jordanian truck drivers were seized by assailants in a separate kidnapping."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

Saddam lawyer sacked: "Disputes among the ex-Iraqi ruler's defence team leads to the sacking of its Jordanian head, Mohammad Rashdan."

In BBC: Conflict with Iraq (UK Edition)

Captors threaten Hassan handover: "Gunmen holding aid worker Margaret Hassan threaten to hand her over to militant Abu Musab al-Zarqawi."

In BBC: Conflict with Iraq (UK Edition)

Senior Iraqi oil official killed: "Gunmen shoot dead a senior Iraqi oil ministry official, as police says a US citizen was kidnapped overnight."

In BBC: Conflict with Iraq (UK Edition)

Gunmen seize six hostages: "A US citizen, a Nepali and four Iraqis are kidnapped as gunmen storm an office in central Baghdad."

In BBC: Conflict with Iraq (UK Edition)

Militants Say Behead Iraqi Army Officer -Web Site (Reuters): "Reuters - A militant group said it beheaded a man it called a senior member of Iraq's armed forces and posted a video of the killing on its Web site on Wednesday."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

Whoever wins US election will be Iraq's friend: Allawi (AFP): "AFP - Iraqi Prime Minister Iyad Allawi said he hoped nothing would change in the role the US-led coalition plays in Iraq whoever wins the US presidential election."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

US-Lebanese contractor kidnapped in Baghdad: police (AFP): "AFP - A US-Lebanese man working for Iraq's transport ministry was kidnapped overnight from his house in the smart Baghdad neighbourhood of Mansour."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

Black Watch: "850 British troops from the Black Watch are moving into central Iraq for 30 days to free up 1000 US soldiers for a planned assault on the rebel town of Fallujah. Leaks from the British forces indicate that political opposition at home could stop the Black Watch being replaced by soldiers from the Scots Guard at the end of their tour of duty in the Iskandariyah triangle."

In Electronic Iraq

Official declares Karzai winner in Afghan election in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Afghan Election URGENT in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Iraq's northern oil exports halted as fires rage near sabotaged wells (AFP): "AFP - Fires raged near major oil wells in northern Iraq after a series of devastating attacks on a pipeline network halted exports from Kirkuk to Turkey."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

Decapitated remains of Iraq hostage return to Japan (AFP): "AFP - The decapitated remains of Japanese tourist Shosei Koda returned to Japan after Tokyo failed to save him from Islamist kidnappers who were demanding a withdrawal of Japanese troops from Iraq."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

2004-11-02T05:09:00.000-08:00

Iraq War News
Kidnappers Release 2 of 4 Iraqi Guards: "Kidnappers have released two of four Iraqi guards abducted along with an American and a Nepalese from the Baghdad compound of a Saudi company, police said Tuesday. (AP)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Uncle Sam's New Recruit Drive: "The Army National Guard - which has fallen short of its recruiting goals - is trying new marketing tactics in an effort to boost its ranks. They include signing bonuses, T-shirts and free hunting and fishing licenses."

In CBS News: Iraq Crisis

Filipino hostage's brother makes plea for his release in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Lawyers for Australian Taliban member ask for case dismissal in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Judge excludes medical evidence in court-martial of Marine: "The judge presiding over the Camp Pendleton court-martial of a Marine Corps officer in charge of a makeshift jail where an Iraqi prisoner died last year has excluded most of the medical evidence from the case."

In San Diego Union-Tribune: In Iraq

Marines Say Cameraman for Reuters Died in Firefight (Reuters): "Reuters - The U.S. military said on Tuesday a cameraman killed in the Iraqi city of Ramadi while on assignment for Reuters had died in a gunbattle between Marines and insurgents."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

Gunmen Seize American, 3 Others in Iraq: "Two Iraqi guards abducted along with an American and Nepalese by armed gunmen from their Baghdad compound have been released, police said Tuesday. (AP)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Car Bomb Kills Five in Baghdad on U.S. Election Day: "A car bomb brought fresh carnage to thestreets of Baghdad on Tuesday, killing at least five people,two of them women, at the Education Ministry. (Reuters)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

U.S. Forces Step Up Pressure on Falluja, Ramadi (Reuters): "Reuters - Ten people were killed in fighting between U.S. Marines and rebels in Iraq's western city of Ramadi, local hospital officials said on Tuesday."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

Hundreds flee Fallujah after night of US air strikes: "Hundreds of people fled the Iraqi rebel-held Fallujah after a heavy night of US air strikes, while an Iraqi cameraman working for Reuters was killed during clashes in the nearby hotspot of Ramadi. (AFP)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Japan to Tighten Security at Military Camp in Iraq (Reuters): "Reuters - Japan is to tighten security at its military camp in Iraq after a rocket shell landed inside the facility, the latest sign of a worsening security situation that is fueling demands in Japan that the troops be pulled out."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

Car bomb explodes at Baghdad intersection in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

2004-11-02T05:05:00.000-08:00

2004-10-28T05:18:00.000-07:00

Iraq War News
U.S. Air Strike Kills Two in Iraq's Falluja (Reuters): "Reuters - U.S. planes bombed the Iraqi city of Falluja overnight, killing two people, in a new strike on rebels digging in for an expected U.S.-led offensive."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

U.S. Bombs Suspected Rebel Site in Iraq (AP): "AP - U.S. aircraft bombed a suspected rebel safehouse Thursday in the insurgent stronghold of Fallujah, killing two people, the U.S. military and witnesses said."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

British troops start perilous Iraq mission, Japan defiant after kidnapping (AFP): "AFP - Hundreds of British soldiers have left southern Iraq on a risky mission to free US forces for a possible assault on rebel-held Fallujah, as a kidnapped British woman was seen reportedly pleading in a new video for the withdrawal of British troops from the country and the release of Iraqi women prisoners."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

Car Bomb Hits U.S. Patrol in Iraq; 2 Dead (AP): "AP - A car bomb exploded Thursday in southern Baghdad, killing a U.S. soldier and at least one Iraqi civilian, the U.S. military said."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

Armed Group Claims to Have Iraq Explosives (AP): "AP - An armed group claimed in a video Thursday to have obtained a large amount of explosives missing from a munitions depot facility in Iraq and threatened to use them against foreign troops."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

Japan Presses for Release of Iraq Hostage (AP): "AP - Japanese leaders struggled on Thursday to make contact with Islamic militants in Iraq who took a Japanese traveler hostage as the 48-hour deadline approached for the young man's threatened beheading. Tokyo stood firm in its refusal to meet the kidnappers' demand to withdraw troops from Iraq."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

U-S aircraft bomb suspected "meeting site" in Iraq's rebel-held Fallujah in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

U-S soldier, civilian killed in Iraq car bomb in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Iraq Explosives Claim URGENT in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Hostage Hassan makes new plea: "The kidnapped British director of CARE International has made another plea for Britain to withdraw troops from Iraq and asked for the aid organisation to close its offices in the country."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

Arafat 'in serious condition': "Yasser Arafat was in serious condition after collapsing and briefly losing consciousness, as his two-week illness took a sudden turn for the worse."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

Black Watch reach first camp: "A Black Watch battle group has camped in the Iraqi town of Nasiryah on their way to the Triangle of Death to relieve US forces."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

U.S., allies leave mark on history in Iraq: "Hammurabi the lawgiver was here. So were Nebuchadnezzar, Alexander the Great, Saddam Hussein and now, apparently, Sgt. Woods and "O-Dog.""

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

Russian troops linked to missing Iraqi explosives (AFP): "AFP - Russian special forces "almost certainly" removed the explosives missing from a military base south of Baghdad before the March 2003 US invasion and sent them to Syria, Lebanon and possibly Iran, The Washington Times daily said quoting a US official."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

2004-10-24T08:02:00.000-07:00

Iraq War News
CIA secretly removes detainees from Iraq: "WASHINGTON (AP) - The CIA has secretly moved as many as a dozen unidentified prisoners out of Iraq in the last six months, a possible violation of international treaties, The Washington Post reported."

In Fresno Bee: Iraq

Bomb detonates near U.S. patrol in Mosul: "MOSUL, Iraq (AP) - A car bomb exploded Sunday near a U.S. patrol in the northern Iraq city of Mosul, the military said. No casualties were reported."

In Fresno Bee: Iraq

State Dept. officer killed in Iraq: "BAGHDAD, Iraq (AP) - A State Department security officer was killed Sunday during a mortar or rocket attack at a U.S. base near Baghdad International Airport, the U.S. Embassy announced."

In Fresno Bee: Iraq

Rebels 'Execute' 49 Iraqi Troops, Kill U.S. Diplomat (Reuters): "Reuters - Rebels ambushed and killed 49 unarmed Iraqi soldiers and, in a separate attack Sunday, killed a U.S. diplomat in a mortar strike near Baghdad airport."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

US secretly moved prisoners out of Iraq for questioning (AFP): "AFP - The CIA has secretly transferred detainees out of Iraq for interrogation after asking the US Justice Department to write a memo justifying the practice, which violates the Geneva Conventions, The Washington Post reported."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

Chaos inside the triangle of death (24 Oct 04) in Radio Free USA

Afghan Election URGENT in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

American security officer reported killed in Baghdad in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

State Department officer dies...Bodies found in Iraq...Karzai wins majority in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Rebels 'Execute' 49 Iraqi Troops, Kill U.S. Diplomat: "Rebels ambushed and killed 49unarmed Iraqi soldiers and, in a separate attack Sunday, killeda U.S. diplomat in a mortar strike near Baghdad airport. (Reuters)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

AP: Saddam Abused Oil-For-Food Program: "Interviews with dozens of former and current Iraqi officials by congressional investigators have produced new evidence that Saddam Hussein micromanaged business deals under the U.N. oil-for-food program to maximize political influence with important foreign governments like Russia and neighboring Arab states. (AP)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

50 Iraqi Soldiers Found Shot to Death: "The bodies of about 50 Iraqi soldiers were found on a remote road in eastern Iraq, apparently the victims of an ambush as they were heading home on leave, Iraqi authorities said Sunday. (AP)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

16 Killed in Bombing at Police Checkpoint: "BAGHDAD â?? A suicide car bomb detonated Saturday outside the gates of a Marine base in western Iraq, killing at least 16 Iraqi police officers and wounding 40 people at a police checkpoint. (Los Angeles Times)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

U.S. Diplomat Killed in Baghdad Mortar Attack: "A U.S. diplomat was killed in a mortarattack near the Baghdad airport early on Sunday, Secretary ofState Colin Powell said in a statement. (Reuters)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

49 Iraqi Soldiers Shot to Death: "

BAGHDAD, Iraqâ?? Forty-nine soldiers in Iraqâ??s new army have been found shot to death, police said Sunday.
Gen. Walid al-Azzawi, commander of the Diyala (search) provincial police, said the bodies were discovered Saturday about 30 miles south of Baqouba.

They were laid out in four rows each, with 12 bodies in each row, he said.

â??After inspection, we found out that they were shot after being ordered to lay down on the earth,â?? he said.

A U.S. military source in the region confirmed the discovery, but said there appeared to be fewer dead, around 30 to 35.

Al-Azzawi said all were members of the new Iraqi army and were training in the Kirkush military camp in Baladruz (search). He said many were from southern provinces.

An investigation is under way, he said.

"

In Command Post: Irak

2004-10-23T07:43:00.000-07:00

Iraq War News
Terrorist Mortar Kills 2 in Baghdad: "

From Reuters via the ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation) :

Insurgents fired two mortar rounds in central Baghdad today, killing
two civilians and wounding one, witnesses said.
A telephone worker said he had taken all three casualties to hospital in his car after one mortar bomb hit the Karrada commercial district.

A donkey was also killed.

Witnesses said the other mortar round appeared to land in the fortified Green Zone, which houses Iraqi government offices and the US and British embassies.

There were no reports of casualties or damage in that blast.

"

In Command Post: Irak

Gunmen ambush Turkish convoy in Iraq; two killed: "MOSUL, Iraq (AP) - Gunmen opened fire on a convoy of Turkish trucks in Mosul on Saturday, killing two Turkish drivers and wounding two others, hospital and police officials said."

In Fresno Bee: Iraq

Kidnapped CARE director pleads for help: "BAGHDAD, Iraq (AP) - Trembling, haggard and weeping into a tissue, Margaret Hassan, the kidnapped British aid worker who has spent nearly half her life delivering food and medicine in Iraq, begged Britain on Friday to help save her by withdrawing its troops, saying these "might be my last hours.""

In Fresno Bee: Iraq

Car bombing kills 10 Iraqi policemen: "A car bomb exploded at a police station Saturday near a base in western Iraq used by U.S. Marines, killing 10 Iraqi policemen and wounding 48 other people, officials said."

In Kansas City Star: Iraq

The Baghdad Blogger goes to Washington: day one (22 Oct 04) in Radio Free USA

US facing 20,000 insurgents in Iraq (23 Oct 04) in Radio Free USA

Suicide Bombers Kill 14 Iraqis in Surge of Violence: "Suicide bombers killed 14 members ofIraq's fledgling security forces near a U.S. marine base westof Baghdad and at a checkpoint to the north on Saturday amid aspate of insurgent attacks across the country. (Reuters)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

A Diamond in the Rough: Iraqis Taking Up Baseball (Los Angeles Times): "Los Angeles Times - BAGHDAD â?? Yasser Abdel Hussein tugs his cap and unwinds with the smooth sidearm delivery that's made him the ace of the pitching staff. He looks like a prospect."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

2004-10-20T05:46:00.000-07:00

Iraq War News
A STRIKE ON ZARQAWI SAFEHOUSE in CENTCOM: News Release

British troop movement to US-zone would be for 'weeks, not months' (AFP): "AFP - Any British troops sent from southern Iraq to help out in the more dangerous US-controlled zone to the north would only be redeployed for a few weeks, according to the top British general in Iraq."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

Humanitarian Aid Director Is Kidnapped (Los Angeles Times): "Los Angeles Times - BAGHDAD â?? Gunmen Tuesday kidnapped the head of the CARE humanitarian group in Iraq, a British-born woman in her 60s who has been critical of the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq and worked for three decades to improve living conditions here."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

Aid Group Stops Iraq Work After Official Kidnapped (Reuters): "Reuters - The kidnapping of a British-Iraqi aid official might prompt her agency, Care International, to withdraw from Iraq, its director said on Wednesday."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

Turkish Cypriot government resigns: "The shaky coalition governing Turkish-controlled northern Cyprus resigned Wednesday after months of confusion in the minority government following a failed referendum to reunite the divided island."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

Humanitarian Aid Director Is Kidnapped: "BAGHDAD â?? Gunmen Tuesday kidnapped the head of the CARE humanitarian group in Iraq, a British-born woman in her 60s who has been critical of the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq and worked for three decades to improve living conditions here. (Los Angeles Times)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Car bombing near Baghdad airport in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

CIA expected Iraqis to wave US flags after invasion (AFP): "AFP - The CIA was so convinced Iraqis would warmly greet US troops that it proposed smuggling hundreds of small American flags into Iraq ahead of the 2003 invasion, to give them something to wave at the soldiers, a report said."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

Soldier to Plead Guilty in Iraq Abuse Case (AP): "AP - An Army reservist charged with abusing Iraqi prisoners plans to plead guilty at a court martial to four counts arising from the Abu Ghraib prison abuse scandal in a plea deal in which eight other counts will be dropped, his lawyer has said."

In Yahoo! News: Iraq

UN Puts Zarqawi Network in Iraq on Its Terror List: "A U.N. panel has put on itssanctions list networks said to be controlled by Jordanian AbuMusab al-Zarqawi after they claimed responsibility forbombings, kidnappings and beheadings in Iraq. (Reuters)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

More than 8,000 U.S. troops wounded in Iraq: "WASHINGTON, D.C. â?? The latest Pentagon figures reveal that the number of U.S. troops wounded in Iraq since military operations began in March 2003 has topped 8,000."

In kgw.com: Iraq News

Iraqi Battalion Commander Barely Escapes Assassination: "In a careening, high-speed shootout, insurgents tried to assassinate the commander of the Iraqi National Guard."

In New York Times: World Special

Faulty Intelligence Misled Troops at War's Start: "Much of the information provided by the C.I.A. to those prosecuting the war and planning the occupation proved wrong."

In New York Times: World Special

2004-10-19T04:50:00.000-07:00

100 Iraqis killed or wounded in attack
JuneauEmpire.com: Associated Press: "A mortar attack on an Iraqi National Guard headquarters north of Baghdad on Tuesday killed or wounded at least 100 Iraqis, officials said, while U.S. troops battled insurgents in a major city west of the capital."

2004-10-18T07:14:00.000-07:00

Iraq War News
Iraq blasts mar Muslim holy month: "Bomb attacks on churches mark the start of Ramadan in Iraq and reports are coming in of explosions in Falluja."

In BBC: Conflict with Iraq (UK Edition)

Zarqawi movement vows allegiance with al-Qaida: "BAGHDAD, Iraq â?? The most feared militant group in Iraq, the movement of terror mastermind Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, declared its allegiance to Osama bin Laden on Sunday, saying it had agreed with al-Qaida over strategy and the need for unity against "the enemies of Islam.""

In kgw.com: Iraq News

British government says redeployment of troops in Iraq not Bush booster in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Indonesian militant cleric to stand trial in Marriott, Bali bombings in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Car bomb kills at least seven in Baghdad: "BAGHDAD, Iraq (AP) - U.S. troops pounded Fallujah with airstrikes and tank fire Sunday, and the Iraqi government appealed to residents to expel "foreign terrorists" to prevent an all-out attack. A suicide driver in Baghdad exploded a car near a police patrol, killing at least seven people and wounding 20."

In Fresno Bee: Iraq

A War without reason (18 Oct 04) in Radio Free USA

U.S. Frees Fallujah Negotiator: "The military released the spokesman for the rebel-dominated city as an apparent gesture to restart talks aimed at avoiding a bloody showdown there. A car bombing in Baghdad left six people dead."

In CBS News: Iraq Crisis

Palestinian: U.S. election stalling peace: "Palestinian Foreign Minister Nabil Shaath said Monday that the U.S. presidential election was stalling the Middle East peace process and urged other countries to increase their efforts."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

Iraq attacks aimed at sinking Bush reelection bid: Putin: "Russian President Vladimir Putin all but endorsed US President George W. Bush, saying that terror attacks in Iraq aimed to sink his reelection bid and warning they would likely increase if successful. (AFP)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

JOINT OPERATION IN HUGE SUCCESS in CENTCOM: News Release

Britain rejects troop redeployment claim: "Prime Minister Tony Blair's government on Monday rejected claims from opposition lawmakers that a redeployment of British troops in Iraq would be a political show of support for the Bush administration before U.S. presidential elections."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

Attacks Target Iraqi Police: "BAGHDAD â?? A car bomb attack in central Baghdad and an ambush south of the capital killed at least a dozen Iraqi police officers Sunday as insurgents continued their violent campaign against the country's security forces. (Los Angeles Times)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

U.S. Buyers of Hussein's Oil Acted to Assist Iraq: "WASHINGTON â?? A month before the Persian Gulf War began in 1991, with an attack by the U.S.-led coalition imminent, famed Texas oil tycoon Oscar Wyatt rushed his corporate jet to Baghdad to rescue 21 Americans being held hostage by Iraqi President Saddam Hussein. (Los Angeles Times)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Britain seen moving Iraq troops further into harm's way: "Defence Minister Geoff Hoon is due to address the British parliament on his country's troop deployment in Iraq, amid widespread reports that some forces are to be moved from the relative calm of southern Iraq into areas around Baghdad, thereby freeing up US forces for attacks on cities like Fallujah. (AFP)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

2004-10-17T08:07:00.000-07:00

A U.S. Army soldier, on top of a Bradley armored vehicle, views smoke rising into the sky after his colleagues destroyed a seized Katyusha rocket, which was found in an empty yard next to a school in Baghdad, October 17, 2004. The Iraq (news - web sites) war has done little to increase security across the world or halt the activities of international terrorists, United Nations (news - web sites) Secretary-General Kofi Annan (news - web sites) said Sunday. (Ali Jasim/Reuters) Yahoo'>http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story2&u=/041017/photos_ts/mdf781961&e=10&ncid=1479">Yahoo! News - Top Stories Photos - Reuters

Two Soldiers Die After Crash in Iraq
1 hour, 9 minutes ago Middle East - AP
By TINI TRAN, Associated Press Writer
BAGHDAD, Iraq - U.S. forces battled insurgents around the rebel stronghold of Fallujah on Sunday after two American soldiers died when their helicopters crashed south of Baghdad. Many Iraqi Christians skipped Mass following bombings at churches in the capital.

Fierce clashes between U.S. troops and insurgents broke out on a highway east of Fallujah and in the southern part of the city, witnesses said. The road, which leads to Baghdad, has been completely blocked. Residents reported fresh aerial and artillery attacks as explosions boomed across the city.
Plumes of smoke were seen rising from the Askari and Shuhada neighborhoods in eastern and southern Fallujah as families began to flee the area, residents reported. They said a Humvee was seen burning in the eastern edge of the city. Hospital officials said three civilians were injured in the clashes.
Fallujah, 40 miles west of the capital, is considered the toughest stronghold of insurgents. Commanders have been speaking of a possible new offensive to wrest it out and other cities of militants' control, and the Marines said Saturday they had tightened their cordon around the city to keep suspected terrorists from fleeing the area. Still, officials have said that intensified airstrikes and fighting over the past week don't mark the start of a new operation.
South of Baghdad, two Army OH-58 helicopters went down about 8:30 p.m. Saturday, the 1st Cavalry Division said. The deaths of their pilots brought to six the number of American troops killed in two days, following car bombings on Friday that killed four servicemembers.
The division said the cause of the crashes had not been determined.
Yahoo'>http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&e=1&u=/ap/20041017/ap_on_re_mi_ea/iraq">Yahoo! News - Two Soldiers Die After Crash in Iraq
A U.S. Army soldier, no name available, from the Scout Platoon, 1st Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division, secures a highway for a convoy of troops moving from Fallujah, Iraq , toward Ramadi early Sunday, Oct. 17, 2004. (AP Photo/Jim MacMillan)Yahoo'>http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story2&u=/041017/481/mac10310171248&e=3&ncid=1479">Yahoo! News - World Photos - AP

asoldiersblog.com

2004-10-17T07:19:00.000-07:00

Iraq War News
Bigley brother hails anti-war march: "Thousands of anti-war demonstrators marched through London and received a ringing endorsement from the brother of murdered hostage Ken Bigley."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

Egypt won't invite Iraq opposition groups to conference: "CAIRO, Egypt (AP) - Egypt's foreign minister said Saturday that his country would not invite Iraqi opposition groups to a high-level conference on Iraqi elections planned next month at an Egyptian resort."

In Fresno Bee: Iraq

Britain Denies Using Troops to Boost Bush's Standing: "The British government rejectedaccusations Sunday that it is using British troops in Iraq toboost George W. Bush's political position in the United Statespresidential election race. (Reuters)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Thousands set to protest Iraq war on London streets: "Thousands of demonstrators were expected to throng the streets of central London to protest against the Iraq war as Prime Minister Tony Blair struggles to shake-off criticism of the invasion. (AFP)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

U.N.'s Annan: Iraq War Done Little to Halt Terrorism: "The Iraq war has done little to increasesecurity across the world or halt the activities ofinternational terrorists, United Nations Secretary-General KofiAnnan said Sunday. (Reuters)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Nine Iraqi Police Killed in Ambush South of Baghdad: "Gunmen ambushed a minibuscarrying nine Iraqi policemen home from training in Jordan,killing all of them, police in Kerbala said. (Reuters)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Detainees released from infamous Abu Ghraib prison in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Detainees freed from infamous Iraq prison: "BAGHDAD, Iraq (AP) - More than 200 detainees were released Sunday from Abu Ghraib prison after a security review deemed them no longer a threat, the U.S. military said."

In Fresno Bee: Iraq

U.S. forces continue assault in Fallujah: "BAGHDAD, Iraq (AP) - U.S. forces battled insurgents around the rebel stronghold of Fallujah on Sunday after two American soldiers died when their helicopters crashed south of Baghdad. Many Iraqi Christians skipped Mass following bombings at churches in the capital."

In Fresno Bee: Iraq

Mortars Fired at Baghdad Hotel Used by Foreigners: "Two mortars were fired at a hotel usedby journalists and foreign contractors in Baghdad on Sunday.There were no initial reports of any injuries or damage. (Reuters)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Saudi forces arrest 4 suspected militants: "Security forces have captured four suspected militants, an Interior Ministry spokesman said Sunday, the latest detentions in a Saudi crackdown on Islamic extremists in the kingdom."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

2004-10-16T07:03:00.000-07:00

Artillery Attacks on Church, Hospital: "

From the AFP via the ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation) :

â?¦a mortar round was fired into a car park between a hotel and St Georgeâ??s Anglican church, witnesses said.
â??There were no injuries,â?? said Tassin Ali, a security guard who had been sitting at the front gate to the hotel.

The mortar round struck directly opposite the church but it was unclear whether it had been the target, an AFP reporter said.

About five cars were damaged in the blast.
[â?¦]
One medic was killed and nine others wounded when a mortar round exploded outside a hospital in Baghdad, just after an artillery shell struck near a church down the road, officials said.

â??The mortar landed in the garden of the hospital,â?? said Hashim Mohammed, a security officer at the Ibn el-Bitar hospital.

The hospital deputy said one person was killed and nine wounded, all of them staff.

"

In Command Post: Irak

Mosul Car Bomb kills US Soldier: "

From the AFP via The Australian :

A US soldier has died of wounds sustained in a car bomb attack yesterday in the northern city of Mosul, the military said today.
â??One soldier assigned to Task Force Olympia died of wounds following a car bomb attack on a Multinational Forces convoy on October 15.

The attack occurred in the east central area of Mosul at approximately 1.20pm (local time),â?? a statement said.

"

In Command Post: Irak

5 Churches Bombed in Iraq: "

From The Australian :

A string of bombs exploded at five churches across Baghdad today though no casualties have been reported, the Iraqi Interior Ministry said.
The explosions rang out in quick succession over an hour and half starting at 4am local time (11am AEST) at St Joseph Church in the Nafaq Al-Shurta area, said ministry spokesman Colonel Adnan Abdul-Rahman.

The other churches hit were St Jacobâ??s Church and St Georgeâ??s Church in the Doura neighbourhood, the Church of Rome in the Karrada neighbourhood and St Thomas Church in the Mansour area.

Colonel Abdul-Rahman said the churches all had some exterior damage, with windows blown out.

â??It is a criminal act to make Iraq unstable and to create religious difficulties,â?? Rev Zaya Yousef of St Georgeâ??s Church said.

â??But this will not happen because we all live together like brothers in this country through sadness and happiness.â??

"

In Command Post: Irak

US troops 'refused Iraq mission': "The US military says it is investigating claims that 19 US soldiers in Iraq refused to undertake a convoy mission."

In BBC: Conflict with Iraq (UK Edition)

Task Force Olympia soldier dies of wounds suffered in car bombing in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Two U-S soldiers killed in attack in southern Afghanistan in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Three Iraqis die in bomb blast outside restive Iraqi city of Baquba: "Three Iraqis from the same family were killed in a roadside bomb blast outside the restive city of Baquba, northeast of Baghdad, local police said. (AFP)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

UK troops may be called to aid US: "The Government is facing pressure to end the uncertainty over plans to send British troops to reinforce the Americans in some of the most volatile areas of Iraq."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

Wounder soldier's wife goes into labor, gives birth to five in IraqWar.info

Military probing whether unit in Iraq refused dangerous mission in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

5th NewsMinute (TOPS) in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Explosions in Baghdad Kill One, Wound Five: "Two blasts, one near a hospital and theother near a hotel, killed one person and wounded five inBaghdad on Saturday, witnesses and hospital officials said. (Reuters)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

2004-10-16T06:47:00.000-07:00

Iraq War News
Five churches, hospital bombed in Baghdad: "Bombs exploded outside five churches in Baghdad and mortar rounds hit near a hospital and a hotel frequented by foreigners, as U.S. forces loosened a cordon around the Sunni insurgent stronghold of Fallujah after several days of clashes with rebels there."

In JuneauEmpire.com: Associated Press

Two U.S. soldiers killed in Afghanistan: "A bomb killed two American soldiers and wounded three others in southern Afghanistan, the U.S. military said Saturday, while a separate attack in an eastern Afghan province killed at least three children and a policeman on the first day of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan."

In JuneauEmpire.com: Associated Press

Unit refused Iraq mission, military says: "Relatives of soldiers who refused to deliver supplies in Iraq say the troops considered the mission too dangerous, in part because their vehicles were in poor shape."

In JuneauEmpire.com: Associated Press

AP Poll: National security captivates U.S.: "National security issues such as the war in Iraq and terrorism are dominating voters' attention in the final weeks before Election Day, Associated Press polling found."

In JuneauEmpire.com: Associated Press

2004-10-15T05:57:00.000-07:00

Iraq War News
U.S. warplanes pound insurgent stronghold: "U.S. warplanes pounded the insurgent stronghold of Fallujah on Friday, a day after the city's leaders suspended peace talks and rejected the Iraqi government's demands to turn over terror mastermind Abu Musab al-Zarqawi."

In JuneauEmpire.com: Associated Press

Zimbabwe opposition leader found innocent: "Zimbabwe opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai was acquitted on treason charges Friday, a surprise end to a yearlong trial that his party had said was orchestrated by the government of President Robert Mugabe."

In JuneauEmpire.com: Associated Press

Karzai takes early lead in Afghan count: "Interim leader Hamid Karzai took an early lead as vote counting began in Afghanistan's landmark presidential election, after allegations of ballot-box stuffing, voter intimidation and multiple voting forced five days of delay."

In JuneauEmpire.com: Associated Press

2004-10-14T04:42:00.000-07:00

Iraq War News
U-S forces trade fire with insurgents in Ramadi in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Car Bomb Explodes Next to U.S. Convoy: "A car bomb exploded next to a U.S. convoy west of the capital, killing at least one Iraqi and wounding eight, hospital officials and survivors said Thursday. (AP)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Iraqi PM warns Fallujah to give up Zarqawi or face attack: "Prime Minister Iyad Allawi threatened a military assault on Fallujah if the rebel bastion does not surrender Iraq's most wanted man, Abu Mussab al-Zarqawi. (AFP)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

U.S. Forces, Insurgents Battle in Ramadi: "U.S. forces traded fire with insurgents in the Sunni stronghold of Ramadi following a series of raids, residents said Thursday, and at least eight people were reported killed. (AP)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

'Direct threat to Britons in Iraq': "British nationals in northern Iraq may be targeted in "a direct threat of kidnap to foreign nationals", The Foreign Office said."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

CIA Secret Detention center in Jordan in IraqWar.info

Female Iraqi Candidates a Diverse Group: "Salama al-Khafaji, a deeply religious woman in an all-enveloping black robe, says that if elected, she'll bring "bright Islamic thoughts" to Iraq's legislature. (AP)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Ramadan Takes on New Meaning in Iraq: "Ramadan is upon this troubled nation again â?? a holy month when pious Muslims seek to cleanse their souls and come together. But in Iraq, many fear the holy season will bring more than usual violence and divisions. (AP)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Falluja Negotiator: Iraq Govt.'s Demand Absurd: "Iraq's interim prime minister hasthreatened to attack Falluja unless it turns in foreignmilitants, but a negotiator for the rebel-held city said onThursday its people were being asked to chase shadows. (Reuters)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Afghan Election URGENT in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

2004-10-13T05:51:00.000-07:00

Iraq War News
Iraqi deputy prime minister pleads for aid: "TOKYO (AP) - Iraq's deputy leader pleaded with donors Wednesday to fulfill their promises of aid to help rebuild his war-ravaged nation, while U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Richard Armitage acknowledged that Washington was initially too slow in channeling money to Iraq."

In Modesto Bee: Iraq

Iraq urges donors to release cash: "Iraq's deputy PM asks nations meeting in Tokyo to fulfil pledges of aid, saying it is key to "beating terrorism"."

In BBC: Conflict with Iraq (UK Edition)

Blair faces demands to apologize over Iraq war: "LONDON (AP) - Prime Minister Tony Blair faced growing demandsWednesday to apologize for the way his government handledintelligence on Iraqi weapons of mass destruction as it built acase for war."

In Fresno Bee: Iraq

Three U.S. soldiers killed in Iraq: "BAGHDAD, Iraq (AP) - A roadside bomb attack killed threeAmerican soldiers in a convoy as American troops and Iraqi soldiersstepped up pressure on Sunni insurgents before the start of theIslamic holy month of Ramadan this week."

In Fresno Bee: Iraq

U.N. Nuclear Inspectors Ready to Return to Iraq: "U.N. inspectors, barred from most ofIraq since last year's invasion, are ready to return to probethe disappearance of equipment that could be used in atomicweapons, the United Nations nuclear watchdog said Wednesday. (Reuters)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

U.S., Iraqi forces launch Baqouba raids: "More than 1,000 U.S. troops, Iraqi police and Iraqi National Guardsmen launched two simultaneous raids Wednesday in Baqouba, north of Baghdad, to clear the area of insurgents before the start of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan this week."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

Military helping troops vote in November election. in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Iraq says nuclear sites are 'well protected' in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

U-S general says election marks end of rule of gun in Afghanistan in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Investigators unearth mass grave in search of evidence against Saddam Hussein in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

GIs Eager To Vote: "In Iraq, Afghanistan, at U.S. bases, and all over the globe, U.S. military men and women are getting their absentee ballots in order. Extra care is being taken to avoid 2000's scenario, which disqualified hundreds of ballots."

In CBS News: Iraq Crisis

U.S. Photographer Says Unharmed by Iraq Captors: "An American photographer abducted bygunmen in Iraq said after his release Tuesday that he wastreated well but did not know why he had been kidnapped. (Reuters)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Israeli army suspends accused officer: "The Israeli army has suspended a platoon commander suspected of emptying an ammunition clip into a 13-year-old Palestinian girl who had already been shot several times by soldiers, a commander said Wednesday."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

IRAQI NATIONAL GUARD AND MULTI-NATIONAL FORCES DETAIN 23, FOIL ROADSIDE BOMB in CENTCOM: News Release

2004-10-12T05:32:00.000-07:00

Iraq War News
MPs to quiz ministers over Iraq: "MPs are getting their first chance to quiz the Government over Iraq since Parliament broke for the summer in July."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

10 Turkish hostages freed in Iraq: "ANKARA, Turkey (AP) - Turkey's foreign minister confirmedTuesday that 10 Turks abducted last month in Iraq had been freed."

In Fresno Bee: Iraq

U.S. and Iraqi forces raid Ramadi mosques: "BAGHDAD, Iraq (AP) - Iraqi forces backed by U.S. soldiers and Marines raided mosques Tuesday in the insurgent stronghold of Ramadi and detained a prominent cleric following fierce clashes that hospital officials said killed at least four people."

In Modesto Bee: Iraq

U.S. Warplanes Strike Fallujah Restaurant in

Iraqi Forces Raid Ramadi Mosques in

US Soldier, 2 Iraqis killed by Suicide Car Bomb in

Turkish Contractor, Translator Beheaded in

Nuclear Equipment Missing, says IAEA in

US to press NATO allies to do more in Afghanistan, Iraq: "US Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld is to press his NATO counterparts this week to contribute more in Afghanistan and Iraq, as the Alliance battles to expand its roles in both countries. (AFP)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Through Hussein's Looking Glass: "WASHINGTON â?? Saddam Hussein was convinced he won the Persian Gulf War in 1991. (Los Angeles Times)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Sadr Fighters Begin Giving Up Arms: "BAGHDAD â?? Members of cleric Muqtada Sadr's Al Mahdi militia began turning over weapons to Iraqi authorities here Monday as the first step in a fledgling peace agreement designed to end weeks of deadly clashes in the capital. (Los Angeles Times)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Oil tops 54-dollar mark in Asian trading in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

U.S. aircraft strike twice in rebel-held Fallujah in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Teaching of Islam in schools backed: "A new drive to teach Islam in schools is set to be launched."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

Sources: Body of Briton Bigley Dumped Near Baghdad: "The body of British engineer KennethBigley, killed by his kidnappers last week after three weeks incaptivity, was dumped just south of Baghdad Friday, sourcesclose to the insurgency said Tuesday. (Reuters)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Nuclear assets 'vanish' in Iraq: "Technology that could help produce a nuclear bomb has gone missing in Iraq, the UN nuclear watchdog warns."

In BBC: Conflict with Iraq

Hostage release confirmed...Iraq heats up...Skyward crude prices in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

2004-10-11T06:32:00.000-07:00

Iraq War News
Kurds disillusioned by Iraq's main parties: "SULAYMANIYAH, Iraq (AP) - Maliha Barzanji says that the last party she voted for ended up arresting her son and she never saw him again. This time around, she plans to cast no vote at all, saying she hates both of the two big parties that run the Kurdish north of Iraq. "If they give me their blood," she says, "I will gladly drink it.""

In Fresno Bee: Iraq

Rumsfeld to Iraqi commanders: Grow seeds of security: "KIRKUK, Iraq (AP) - After listening to two U.S. Army officers describe recent progress in battling the insurgency and stabilizing northern Iraq, Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld swung his chair around and faced four senior Iraqi commanders who had sat silently through the briefing."

In Fresno Bee: Iraq

Rocket attack kills 2 U.S. troops in Iraq: "BAGHDAD, Iraq (AP) - Two soldiers from Task Force Baghdad were killed and five wounded Monday in a rocket attack in southern Baghdad, the military said."

In Fresno Bee: Iraq

Polish-led force in Iraq to leave base: "WARSAW, Poland (AP) - The command of the Polish-led multinational force in Iraq will move out of a camp that includes ancient Babylonian archaeological sites by year's end, Poland's defense minister said Sunday during a surprise visit to the troops."

In Fresno Bee: Iraq

Rumsfeld hoping for troop cutback in Iraq: "AL ASAD AIR BASE, Iraq (AP) - The United States may be able to reduce its troop levels in Iraq after this country's January elections if security improves and local forces continue to expand and become more effective, Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld says."

In Fresno Bee: Iraq

Iraqi security forces coming under fire: "BAGHDAD, Iraq (AP) - With no work and five children to feed, Salah Abbas ignored his family's pleas not to join the Iraqi National Guard, a job where the paycheck comes with a deadly risk."

In Fresno Bee: Iraq

Shiite militiamen turn in weapons in Baghdad in

Armed group threatens to behead Turkish hostage: "Armed men claiming to belong to the militant group of Abu Mussab Al-Zarqawi appeared in a video on Dubai's Al-Arabiya television on threatening to behead a Turkish hostage. (AFP)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Israeli aircraft attacks militant's house: "An Israeli aircraft fired a missile Monday at a house in the southern Gaza town of Rafah, wounding five people, including a top Islamic Jihad leader, witnesses and hospital officials said."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

Egyptian military seals off bombed hotel: "With Israeli rescue workers pulling out, the Egyptian military sealed off a bombed luxury hotel Monday to clear more debris and collect evidence for investigators tracing the explosives and vehicles used in the attack that targeted Israeli tourists."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

Aid Money Must Flow Quickly, Iraq to Tell Donors: "Iraq could plunge into still deeperchaos unless billions of dollars the international communityhas pledged for rebuilding are spent quickly, the Baghdadgovernment will warn this week. (Reuters)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Bobby-trapped car explodes in Mosul: "A car bomb exploded Monday in western Mosul as an American military convoy was passing by, witnesses said. First reports indicated it may have been a suicide attack."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

2004-10-10T05:51:00.000-07:00

Iraq War News
Iraq 'honours list' sparks protest: "Prime Minister Tony Blair has provoked fresh controversy over the war with a "special Iraq Honours list"."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

Afghanistan's presidential election will take awhile to tabulate in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Two explosions kill ten in Baghdad in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

The Other Weapons Threat in Iraq: "WASHINGTON â?? Insurgent networks across Iraq are increasingly trying to acquire and use toxic nerve gases, blister agents and germ weapons against U.S. and coalition forces, according to a CIA report. Investigators said one group recruited scientists and sought to prepare poisons over seven months before it was dismantled in June. (Los Angeles Times)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Cease-Fire Deal Reached, Sadr Militia Announces: "BAGHDAD â?? Followers of radical Shiite Muslim cleric Muqtada Sadr said they reached a cease-fire agreement Saturday with the interim Iraqi government, but a government spokesman said the only proof of a deal would be if the rebels started handing over their weapons Monday. (Los Angeles Times)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Bombs Kill 10 in Baghdad; Rumsfeld Visits: "Two car bombs shook the capital in quick succession Sunday, killing at least 10 people and wounding 17, including an American soldier, U.S. and Iraqi officials said. (AP)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Blast Kills Up to 17 Near Baghdad Police Academy: "A suspected suicide car bomb killed upto 17 people near Baghdad's Oil Ministry and a nearby policeacademy Sunday, a spokesman for the ministry said. (Reuters)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Bigley escaped for night - reports: "There is still confusion over exactly what happened during Ken Bigley's last few desperate hours as it emerged that the Prime Minister had spoken to his family for the first time since his brutal murder."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

Four killed, two wounded in rocket attack near Baghdad oil ministry: "At least four people were killed and two wounded in a rocket attack near the oil ministry in the Iraqi capital, medical sources and police said. (AFP)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Allies urged to make good on Iraq pledges: "Hoping to keep much-needed cash flowing into war-ravaged Iraq, Japan will host a 50-nation Iraqi reconstruction donors' conference this week that may focus less on getting new pledges than on getting countries to honor their earlier promises."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

Israeli missile kills one in Gaza camp: "An Israeli aircraft fired a missile Sunday at a Palestinian house in Gaza's Jebaliya refugee camp, killing one person and wounding eight, witnesses and rescue workers said."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

Rumsfeld gives troops timetable in Iraq: "Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld greeted U.S. Marines at this dusty air field in Iraq's western desert Sunday morning, telling them it was unlikely the United States would pull out any troops before Iraq's elections in January."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

in

in

Defense secretary makes surprise visit to Iraq in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

2004-10-09T07:09:00.000-07:00

Iraq War News
U-S, Iraqi troops detain suspected insurgents in northern Iraq in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Bigley 'escaped before execution': "The Foreign Office has refused to discuss reports that Iraq hostage Ken Bigley managed to escape briefly before being recaptured and beheaded."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

Blast Heard in Central Baghdad - Witnesses: "A blast echoed over central Baghdad onSaturday and white smoke rose from the direction of the GreenZone housing Iraqi government offices and the U.S. and Britishembassies, Reuters witnesses said. (Reuters)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

US Iraq ally Howard wins reelection in Australia: "The conservative government of Australian Prime Minister John Howard won a fourth straight term in office as Australia's booming economy overshadowed criticism of his staunch support for the US-led war in Iraq. (AFP)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Sadr Militia to Disarm Under Iraq Peace Deal: "A Shi'ite militia led by Moqtadaal-Sadr will start to disarm in Baghdad from Monday following adeal reached on Saturday with Iraq's interim government andU.S. officials, the chief Shi'ite negotiator said. (Reuters)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

al-Sadr expected to hand over weapons: "Militiamen loyal to Muqtada al-Sadr will begin handing over weapons to Iraqi police next week in a major step toward ending weeks of fighting with American soldiers and restoring peace in Baghdad's Sadr City district, a senior aide to the radical cleric said Saturday."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

Rocket or mortar explodes in Green Zone: "A rocket or mortar exploded Saturday in the U.S.-protected Green Zone, sending up a large cloud of smoke over the heart of the American and Iraqi government quarter."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

Israelis, Hamas militants clash in Gaza: "Israeli troops shot at Hamas militants about to fire an anti-tank missile Saturday, setting off an explosion that killed one man and wounded three, the army and hospital officials said."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

IRAQI SECURITY FORCES AND MULTI-NATIONAL FORCES FOIL CAR BOMB ATTACK, DETAIN 14 in CENTCOM: News Release

THREE SUSPECTS DETAINED DURING SEARCH FOR SUICIDE BOMBER in CENTCOM: News Release

IRAQIS TAKE OVER TRAINING ROLE in CENTCOM: News Release

U.S.: No Terror Connection to Schools Disk: "Federal officials said Friday there is no terrorist connection to a computer disk found in Iraq that contained information about schools in six states. The disk was made by an unidentified Iraqi man who was doing research and had no connections to al-Qaida or the Iraqi insurgents battling U.S. forces, according to the FBI. The man did have links to the Baath Party that ruled Iraq under Saddam Hussein, but that's true of many former government officials and community leaders. (AP)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

U.S, Iraqi Troops Foil Car Bomb Attack: "U.S. and Iraqi forces foiled a car bomb attack and detained 17 suspected insurgents in operations in the north of the country, the U.S. command said Saturday. (AP)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Bedouin tribesmen held in Egypt bombing: "Dozens of Bedouin tribesmen have been detained on suspicion they supplied the explosives for coordinated car bombings at two Egyptian resorts that killed at least 33 people, most of them Israelis, officials said Saturday."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

U.S, Iraqi troops foil car bomb attack: "U.S. and Iraqi forces foiled a car bomb attack and detained 17 suspected insurgents in operations in the north of the country, the U.S. command said Saturday."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

2004-10-09T07:08:00.000-07:00

2004-10-07T07:13:00.000-07:00

Operation Holiday Spirit
Thousands of Angels Seeking Help with Getting Holiday Stockings for the Troops

Soldiers' Angels launch Operation Holiday Spirit

(PRWEB) October 7 , 2004 -- Having a must do mindset the members of Soldiers' Angels have made it their number one priority to get Christmas stockings to all of the men and women deployed to Iraq, Afghanistan and other parts of the world during this upcoming holiday season. What started as a small wish of Patti Patton-Bader, the founder, has sparked attention from several large corporations, a radio-talk show personality, and a Hollywood actor.

Also in this campaign is the efforts of VFW in Centerreach, New York who has agreed to pack all of the stockings.Soldiers' Angels, a non profit organization started by a mother whose son informed her that members of his unit were not receiving mail from home. The organization has been sending letters and care packages to our men and women of the military since June of 2003. â??May no soldier go unlovedâ?? has been Patti Patton-Baderâ??s motto since the beginning of what started out as one womanâ??s dream has grown to over 14, 000 members supporting our military. To date the organization has about 10,000 military members in its adoption program. While the numbers keep growing everyday the members have not lost focus of their mission and that is to â??provide aid and comfort to our militaryâ?¦â??

Since starting the Stockings for Troops campaign the organization has received 331 cases of items from Neutrogena they plan on putting in the Christmas stockings. AT&T, the only carrier whose phone cards work from many locations where our military are currently deployed, is matching minutes on their phone cards. Ms. Patton-Bader and the rest of the Angels believe that if our military cannot be home for the holidays, they can a bit of home to our military. Between now and November 20th Soldiersâ?? Angels hopes to send 140, 000 Christmas stockings to the military men and women defending our countrites freedom far from home. The organization would like to fill each stocking with a card of encoragement, an AT&T phone card, some holiday candy, hot chocolate packets, instant soup, a sand scarf, and other holiday items. They have set up a special link on their website, www.soldiersangels.com for monetary donations.

They are asking that all donations of stockings, AT&T phone cards, cards, and other holiday items to fill the stockings be sent to the VFW Post 4927, 31 Horseblock Road, Centerreach, NY 11720. All monentary donations can be sent to Soldiers' Angels, 1729 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91104. You may call John Adams of the VFW at (631) 585-7390 or Patti Patton-Bader at (626) 398-3131 for more information on items needed or how to donate.

2004-10-07T07:11:00.000-07:00

2004-10-07T06:56:00.000-07:00

Iraq War News
Explosion damages Istanbul cathedral: "An explosion shattered windows at the seat of the spiritual leader of the world's Orthodox Christians in Istanbul on Thursday, officials said. There were no reports of injuries."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

U.S. Navy helicopter crashes in Kuwait: "A U.S. Navy helicopter crashed Thursday immediately after takeoff in Kuwait, but all seven crew survived, the 5th Fleet's headquarters said."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

U.S. report: Iraq didn't have WMDs: "Saddam Hussein's weapons of mass destruction programs had deteriorated into only hopes and dreams by the time of the U.S.-led invasion last year, a decline wrought by the first Gulf War and years of international sanctions, the chief U.S. weapons hunter found."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

U.S. 'almost all wrong' on weapons (7 Oct 04) in Radio Free USA

IRAQ: Refurbishment of schools in the south continues: "BASRA, 7 Oct 2004 (IRIN) - Salah Sabah, a maths teacher and an assistant at Irshad Primary School in the southern city of Basra, has been visiting the Educational Directorate regularly since the year 2000 to ask for help to rehabilitate his school."

In IRIN: Iraq Crisis

U.S. raises security alert in Green Zone after foiled bombing: "BAGHDAD, Iraq (AP) - U.S. authorities raised the security alert in the heavily guarded Green Zone after an improvised bomb was found in front of a restaurant there, officials said Thursday. Twenty Iraqis were arrested in the north in operations against those suspected of planting bombs against U.S. and Iraqi targets."

In Modesto Bee: Iraq

Accusations say U-N and other officials profited from illicit Iraq oil sales in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

More than 200 detainees freed from Abu Ghraib after latest review at facility in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Blair faces final judgment on WMD: "The Government is facing up to confirmation Saddam Hussein did not have weapons of mass destruction."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

Muslim loses Iraq war legal bid: "A Muslim reservist airman who refused to take part in the Iraq war because of his religious beliefs has lost his landmark legal battle over his prosecution by the RAF for going absent without leave."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

Soldier killed, two wounded near Fallujah: "BAGHDAD, Iraq (AP) - An explosive device hit a U.S. convoy near the rebel-held city of Fallujah, killing one soldier from the 13th Corps Support Command and wounding two, the military said in a statement Thursday."

In Fresno Bee: Iraq

Bomb discovered at Green Zone restaurant: "BAGHDAD, Iraq (AP) - An improvised bomb was found in a restaurant in Baghdad's heavily fortified Green Zone, home of the U.S. Embassy and key government offices, American officials said Thursday."

In Fresno Bee: Iraq

Detainees released from two Iraq prisons: "BAGHDAD, Iraq (AP) - About 240 detainees were released from U.S. and Iraqi custody Thursday under a review process set up following the prisoner abuse scandal at Abu Ghraib prison, the U.S. military said."

In Fresno Bee: Iraq

Prepping for the debate...Saddam's danger?...Pakistani violence in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Only Hussein Had Full Picture: "WASHINGTON â?? Shortly before the U.S. bombing and invasion of Iraq last year, Saddam Hussein gathered his top generals together to share what came to them as astonishing news: The weapons that the United States was launching a war to remove did not exist. (Los Angeles Times)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Report Accuses Ex-Head of U.N. Oil Program: "Vivid allegations of widespread corruption at the U.N. oil-for-food program by the top U.S. arms inspector have added credibility to accusations the United Nations looked the other way while Saddam Hussein's government skimmed billions of dollars and offered kickbacks to European and Arab countries and officials. (AP)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Afghan government says drug smugglers were behind political attack yesterday in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

2004-10-06T07:00:00.000-07:00

Iraq War News
IRAQ: Syrian refugees face difficulties in troubled capital: "BAGHDAD, 6 Oct 2004 (IRIN) - The Syrians in and around Baghdad may be Iraq's most unusual group of refugees. Many of the 500 Syrians live in central Haifa Street, scene of numerous bombings and firefights between insurgents and US forces in recent weeks."

In IRIN: Iraq Crisis

Report may undercut Bush's Iraq rationale: "The final report of the chief U.S. arms inspector for Iraq is expected to undercut a principal Bush administration rationale for removing Saddam Hussein: that Saddam's Iraqi government had weapons of mass destruction. Weapons hunter Charles Duelfer will provide his findings Wednesday to the Senate Armed Services Committee."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

Car bomb kills 10 Iraqis near Baghdad: "A car bomb exploded Wednesday at an Iraqi military camp northwest of Baghdad, killing 10 Iraqis and wounding more than 20, officials said, in the latest attack on security forces that are key to U.S. plans for fighting the insurgency."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

Al-Sadr followers agree to cease-fire: "Followers of renegade Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr have agreed to a cease-fire with Iraq's interim government aimed at ending weeks of fighting in the vast Baghdad slum of Sadr City, a mediator said Wednesday. However, key members of the cleric's movement insisted terms of the deal had not been finalized."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

Car Bomb in Western Iraq Kills at Least 10: "A suicide car bomb blew up near aNational Guard center in western Iraq on Wednesday, killing atleast 10 people, as U.S. and Iraqi forces struggled to quellinsurgents bent on derailing elections due in January. (Reuters)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Bremer changes tune, defends U.S. actions in Iraq: "EAST LANSING, Mich. (AP) - A day after suggesting that the United States didn't initially send enough troops to Iraq to stem lawlessness, the former top U.S. administrator in Iraq softened his assessment, saying he only recognized the problem with the benefit of hindsight and insisted there are enough soldiers on the ground now."

In Fresno Bee: Iraq

UK patrol escapes Basra bridge bomb: "A roadside bomb exploded as a British patrol was crossing a bridge in Basra, killing one Iraqi and injuring ten others, including four policemen."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

in

Car bomb hits Iraq military camp; 10 dead: "A suicide car bomber struck Wednesday at an Iraqi military camp northwest of Baghdad, killing 10 Iraqis and wounding more than 20, Iraqi officials said."

In Kansas City Star: Iraq

2004-10-06T05:10:00.000-07:00

Report: Deal With Iraq Rebel Chief
CBS News: Iraq Crisis: "Reports of a new truce with Shiite militia leader Muqtada al Sadr come amid fresh violence across Iraq. Troops hit an insurgent stronghold south of Baghdad, a bomb struck Basra and clashes erupted in Mosul."

2004-10-05T04:32:00.000-07:00

Iraq War News
Rumsfeld questions Saddam-Bin Laden link: "Donald Rumsfeld queries whether there were ever ties between Saddam Hussein and Osama Bin Laden."

In BBC: Conflict with Iraq (UK Edition)

Three Headless Bodies Found in North Iraq City: "Police found two decapitated bodiesin the northern Iraqi city of Mosul Tuesday, two days afterdiscovering another beheaded corpse near a bus station, localpolice and hospital officials said. (Reuters)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Four U.S. Soldiers Charged With Murder: "Four soldiers accused of smothering an Iraqi general during an interrogation last fall have been charged with murder, bringing the total number of U.S. troops charged with murder in Iraq to at least 10. (AP)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

IRAQ: Kurds continue to flee cities of Sunni triangle: "SULAYMANIYAH, 5 Oct 2004 (IRIN) - Pressured by Iraqi insurgents who see them as US collaborators, or caught in the crossfire between Coalition forces and local militias, Iraqi Kurdish families continue to flee their homes in the Sunni Arab cities of Fallujah, Ramadi, Samarrah andBaquba in central Iraq for the Kurdish-controlled north."

In IRIN: Iraq Crisis

One U-S soldier killed, two injured by homemade bomb in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Two hostages executed in Iraq: "A militant group claimed to have killed two hostages in Iraq - one a Turk and the other an Iraqi who was a long-time resident in Italy, the Arab news network Al-Jazeera reported."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

Professor sues U.S. over war coffin photos: "WASHINGTON (AP) - A journalism professor sued the government Monday to force the Defense Department to release pictures of flag-draped coffins of soldiers arriving in the United States from wars overseas."

In Fresno Bee: Iraq

Sadr City 'targeted by US forces': "Coalition aircraft in Iraq reportedly bomb a militant Shia stronghold, as the US vows to crush insurgency."

In BBC: Conflict with Iraq (UK Edition)

2004-10-04T07:12:00.000-07:00

Iraq War News
Two blasts rip through Baghdad, killing 21: "Two car bombs ripped through crowded Baghdad streets on Monday, killing at least 21 people and wounding 96, as insurgents step up their campaign to undermine the country's U.S.-backed interim government and drive the United States and its allies out of Iraq."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

Australian election is referendum on Iraq war, U.S. ties: "John Howard appears poised to become Australia's second-longest serving prime minister when the country goes to the polls Saturday, despite criticism over the war in Iraq and his dwindling credibility. (Chicago Tribune)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Samarra victory encourages Iraqi forces: "SAMARRA, Iraq â?? Bloodied by weeks of suicide bombings and assassinations, Iraqi security forces emerged Sunday to patrol Samarra after a morale-boosting victory in this Sunni Triangle city, and U.S. commanders praised their performance."

In kgw.com: Iraq News

Another Two Airstrikes in Fallujah: "

From The Australian :

Nine people were killed in two pre-dawn raids by United States planes on suspected rebel targets in Fallujah, west of the capital of Baghdad today, according to a local hospital.
Doctor Adel Khamis of Fallujah general hospital said the second of the two strikes killed nine people, three of them women and two children.

He said 14 people were wounded in the strike, while no casualties were reported in the first raid.

Death tolls provided by one side or the other cannot be verified independently.

A military statement said US forces â??conducted a precision strike against a building where approximately 25 anti-Iraqi forces network members were moving weapons on the outskirts of Fallujahâ??.

In a second raid, â??multinational Force-Iraq once again struck members of the Abu Musab al-Zarqawi terrorist network operating in central Fallujahâ??, the military said.

â??In the last month, multinational Forces have successfully conducted ten offensive strikes on the Abu Musab al-Zarqawi terrorist network. Each action removed foreign fighters from the streets of Fallujah and strengthens the safety of Iraq,â?? the US statement said.

A senior US military source claimed last week that more than 100 Zarqawi operatives had been killed in recent weeks in strikes on Fallujah, a no-go zone for ground troops.

"

In Command Post: Irak

Bomb threat plane diverted to UK: "A Singapore Airlines plane en route from Frankfurt to JFK airport in New York was diverted to Manchester Airport following a bomb threat."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

IRAQI BORDER PATROL GETS NEW EQUIPMENT in CENTCOM: News Release

MARINES CAPTURE FOREIGN FIGHTERS IN AL ANBAR in CENTCOM: News Release

IRAQI NATIONAL GUARD SOLDIERS GRADUATE FROM TRAINING in CENTCOM: News Release

1ST CAV'S BLACK JACK BRIGADE TO COMPLETE YEARLONG ROTATION in CENTCOM: News Release

KOREAN SOLDIERS ASSUME OPERATIONAL AUTHORITY FROM MULIT-NATIONAL BRIGADE NORTHWE in CENTCOM: News Release

PRECISION STRIKE IN FALLUJAH in CENTCOM: News Release

MNF PRECISION STRIKE TARGETS ANTI-IRAQI FORCE TRAINERS in CENTCOM: News Release

Indonesia confirms identity of women hostages in Iraq: "Indonesia confirmed the identity of two women being held hostage by militants in Iraq and appealed to Muslim leaders in the Middle East to help secure their release. (AFP)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

2004-10-03T05:07:00.000-07:00

Ransom plea may save hostage Bigley: "The brother of British hostage Ken Bigley is investigating whether it might be possible to buy his sibling's life."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

Four civilians killed in Fallujah strike: "Four civilians were killed and 12 injured in a series of overnight strikes in rebel-held Fallujah, the city hospital said Sunday."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

Iraq's `Nuclear Mastermind' Tells Tale of Ambition, Deceit: "WASHINGTON â?? On most days now, Mahdi Obeidi rides his new mountain bike, plays with his grandkids and works on getting a U.S. patent for technology he originally developed to build a nuclear bomb for Saddam Hussein. (Los Angeles Times)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

Pope Denounces Kidnappings in Iraq: "Pope John Paul II denounced kidnappers for using human beings as bargaining chips, and said Saturday that journalists were paying a heavy price in their work during conflicts. (AP)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

2004-10-02T07:30:00.000-07:00

Operation Holiday Spirit

2004 International and Military Mail Christmas Mailing Dates

To ensure delivery of holiday cards and packages by December 25 to military APO/FPO addresses overseas and to international addresses, we suggest that mail be entered by the recommended mailing dates listed below. Beat the last minute rush by bringing your mail to your Post OfficeTM by these suggested dates.

Military Mail Addressed To	Express Mail Military Service (EMMS)^1/	First-Class MailÂ® Letters/Cards	Priority MailÂ®	Parcel Airlift Mail (PAL) ^2/	Space Available Mail (SAM) ^3/	Parcel PostÂ®
APO/FPO AE ZIPs 090-092	Dec 20	Dec 11	Dec 11	Dec 4	Nov 27	Nov 13
APO/FPO AE ZIP 093	N/A	Dec 6	Dec 6	Dec 4	Nov 27	Nov 13
APO/FPO AE ZIPs 094-098	Dec 20	Dec 11	Dec 11	Dec 4	Nov 27	Nov 13
APO/FPO AA ZIPs 340	Dec 20	Dec 11	Dec 11	Dec 4	Nov 27	Nov 13
APO/FPO AP ZIPs 962-966	Dec 20	Dec 11	Dec 11	Dec 4	Nov 27	Nov 13

2004-10-01T05:56:00.000-07:00

Iraq War News
80 dead as battle rages in Iraq: "More than 80 people were reported dead and 100 wounded in heavy fighting as US and Iraqi troops launched a major assault to retake control of the insurgent stronghold of Samarra north of the capital."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

Bigley kidnapping enters third week: "British hostage Ken Bigley enters his third week in captivity as the Government admitted it had not expected to be dealing with kidnappings in Iraq."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

14 die in Pakistan mosque blast: "A suicide bomber blew himself during prayers in a Pakistani Shiite mosque, killing at least 14 worshippers and injuring dozens of others."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

Charges facing Saddam Hussein: "A guide to the seven preliminary charges facing Saddam Hussein."

In BBC: Conflict with Iraq (UK Edition)

OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS IN SAMARRA in CENTCOM: News Release

Indonesia Confirms Kidnapping in Iraq: "Jakarta called for the release of two Indonesian women held hostage by Islamic militants in Iraq, expressing hope Friday that the kidnapping was "a mistake" since the government never backed the war. (AP)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

2004-09-28T05:30:00.000-07:00

Iraq War News
Two UK troops killed in Iraq ambush: "Two British soldiers have been killed following an ambush on a convoy near the southern Iraqi city of Basra on Tuesday morning, a Ministry of Defence spokesman said."

In Ananova: War In Iraq

IRAQ: Residents return to Tal Afar: "BAGHDAD, 28 Sep 2004 (IRIN) - Water and electricity have been restored to the former insurgent stronghold of Tal Afar, near the northern city of Mosul, and many residents have returned to their homes, a US military official said on Sunday on condition of anonymity."

In IRIN: Iraq Crisis

MNF-I CONDUCT PRECISION STRIKE ON ZARQAWI SITE in CENTCOM: News Release

TWO SOLDIERS CHARGED WITH MURDER IN BAGHDAD in CENTCOM: News Release

TASK FORCE DANGER SOLDIERS CAPTURE LEADER OF AIF CELL in CENTCOM: News Release

American forces bomb site in Fallujah: "American forces bombed a site in the insurgent stronghold of Fallujah early Tuesday where several militants loyal to terror mastermind Abu Musab al-Zarqawi were believed to be holed up, the U.S. military said."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

Official: Saudis to raise oil production: "Saudi Arabia, the world's largest oil exporter, will raise production from 9.5 million barrels a day to 11 million barrels, an Oil Ministry official said Tuesday."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

Palestinian police search for CNN producer: "Palestinian police were searching Tuesday for an Israeli Arab producer for CNN who was kidnapped at gunpoint from his van, and the TV network joined journalists' associations in demanding his immediate release."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

Insurgents attack British military convoy: "Insurgents ambushed a British Army convoy near the southern city of Basra on Tuesday, killing two soldiers, the British Ministry of Defense said."

In Seattle Post-Intelligencer: War on Iraq

Pickup truck vs. roadside bomb in IraqWar.info

Insurgents Are Mostly Iraqis, U.S. Military Says: "WASHINGTON â?? The insistence by interim Iraqi Prime Minister Iyad Allawi and many U.S. officials that foreign fighters are streaming into Iraq to battle American troops runs counter to the U.S. military's own assessment that the Iraqi insurgency remains primarily a home-grown problem. (Los Angeles Times)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

U.S. Bombs Insurgent Targets in Baghdad; Civilian Toll Reported: "BAGHDAD â?? U.S. warplanes bombed suspected insurgent positions in a restive slum of the Iraqi capital Monday, and hospital officials said 10 people, including civilians, were killed. (Los Angeles Times)"

In Yahoo! News: War with Iraq

in

Moderate Muslim nations in southeast Asia urge a steady hand with Islamic terror in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Kyrgyzstan Radioactive Smuggling in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Oil Prices in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Rights group says Afghan election will entrench warlord power in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Officials say al-Qaida election threat not geared toward particular candidate in Katu.com: Iraq & Terror

Abuse, Torture and Rape Reported at Unlisted U.S.-run Prisons in Iraq: "American legal investigators have discovered evidence of abuse, torture and rape throughout the US-run prison system in Iraq. A Michigan legal team meeting with former detainees in Baghdad during an August fact-finding mission gathered evidence supporting claims of prisoner abuse at some 25 US-run detention centers, most of them so far not publicly mentioned as being embroiled in the Iraq torture scandal."

In Electronic Iraq

Egyptian Workers Kidnapped: "Sept. 24 - Gunmen abducted six Egyptians working for Iraq's mobile phone company, seizing two in a bold raid on the firm's Baghdad office."

In War In Iraq from www.FeedRoom.com

Iraqi Judge Drops Case Against Chalabi: "

A senior Iraqi judge said today that he had closed a case brought against Ahmad Chalabi, the former exile once backed by the Pentagon, who had been suspected of involvement in a counterfeiting operation.
The judge, Zuhair al-Maliky, said in a telephone interview that he took the action about a week-and-a-half ago because he had decided â??the evidence was not enough to bring the case to trial.â?? If more evidence emerges, he said, the case will be reopened.

The decision also followed conversations between Mr. Chalabiâ??s lawyers and representatives of the Central Bank of Iraq, Judge Maliky said.