Friday, December 28, 2007

Troops Kill 11 Insurgents, Detain 19 in Iraq Operations

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Dec. 27, 2007 - Coalition troops killed 11 insurgents and captured 19 others during separate operations in Iraq today, military officials reported.

In Mosul, coalition troops captured a wanted individual believed to be responsible for a group of terrorists who conduct assassinations in the city, including attacks against Iraqi security forces. Intelligence indicates the wanted individual is responsible for reporting on the locations of coalition and Iraqi forces for use in planning attacks. He also allegedly is involved in extortion, execution and counterintelligence operations. Six other suspected terrorists also were detained.

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U.S., Afghan Forces Seize 2 Terrorists, Find Weapons Cache

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Dec. 27, 2007 - Afghan and U.S. security forces detained two suspected terrorist bombers and seized a weapons cache during separate operations in Afghanistan Dec. 24.

Afghan security troops, advised by coalition forces, disrupted major terrorist networks by arresting two key facilitators responsible for improvised-explosive-device attacks against civilian and military targets.

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'Ironhorse' Brigade Officer Reflects on Progress in Ira

By Staff Sgt. Jon Cupp, USA | Special to American Forces Press Service
CAMP TAJI, Iraq, Dec. 27, 2007 - When the senior leadership and soldiers of the 1st Cavalry Division's 1st "Ironhorse" Brigade Combat Team arrived in Iraq nearly 15 months ago, the security situation here was quite different from the one they now experience as they patrol the streets throughout their area of operations.

According to Maj. Patrick Michaelis, the Ironhorse brigade's operations officer, the brigade has seen a "phenomenal change" from having 150 enemy attacks per week for the first seven to 10 weeks in theater to having only about 10 significant events per week, now mostly involving the finding of weapons caches and improvised explosive devices, with only isolated incidents of coordinated enemy attacks.

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Thursday, December 27, 2007

U.S. Troops Kill 11 Members of Shiite Splinter Group Southeast of Baghdad

December 27, 2007 | Associated Press
BAGHDAD - U.S. troops killed 11 members of a Mahdi Army splinter group early Thursday, American officials said. The military also announced that it had detained two more suspects in the capture of three U.S. soldiers earlier this year.

One of the suspects is thought to have "facilitated" the kidnapping of the American soldiers taken during a May ambush near Youssifiyah, about 12 miles south of Baghdad, and to have used his house to hide the soldiers, the military said in a statement.

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Wednesday, December 26, 2007

Triple Threat Pressures al Qaeda in Iraq, General Says

By Gerry J. Gilmore | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Dec. 26, 2007 - Having been ejected from Baghdad and its environs during the surge of forces, al Qaeda in Iraq is attempting to re-establish itself in regions north of the capital city, a senior U.S. military officer posted in Iraq said today.

Yet, while al Qaeda scrambles to reorganize itself, the terrorist group is being pressured by a triple threat consisting of coalition and Iraqi security forces and local concerned citizens' groups, Army Maj. Gen. Kevin J. Bergner, a spokesman for Multinational Force Iraq, told reporters at a Baghdad news conference.

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Troops in Afghanistan Detain Suspected Militants

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Dec. 26, 2007 - Afghan and coalition forces conducted an operation yesterday to detain Taliban extremists in Afghanistan's Nangarhar province.

The combined Afghan and coalition force searched compounds in the Chaparhar district targeting Taliban facilitators believed to be operating in the area. The force detained three individuals suspected of having links to Taliban networks during the course of operations.

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Coalition Forces Kill Four Terrorists, Detain One in Central Iraq

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Dec. 26, 2007 - Coalition forces killed four terrorists and detained one suspect today during operations targeting al Qaeda in central Iraq.

In continued efforts to disrupt terrorist activities in the Diyala River Valley, coalition forces conducted two coordinated operations north of Muqdadiyah targeting associates of the al Qaeda network in the region. Intelligence reports indicate the individuals are associated with the group that was involved in several firefights with coalition forces during operations on Dec. 12 and 13.

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Afghan, U.S. Troops Deliver Aid to Villagers

American Forces Press Service
BAGRAM AIR BASE, Afghanistan, Dec. 26, 2007 - Afghan national security forces, assisted by coalition forces, delivered tons of humanitarian assistance to hundreds of villagers in Afghanistan's Nangarhar province.

The Afghan forces, including members of the Afghan National Police, delivered more than two tons of blankets, toys, soccer balls, flour, rice, prayer rugs, storage bags and other items Dec. 16 and 17 to more than 350 adults and 650 children who showed up to receive the goods.

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Iraqi Army, U.S. Troops Deliver Backpacks to School Children

By Sgt. James P. Hunter, USA | Special to American Forces Press Service
ADIL, Iraq, Dec. 26, 2007 - The troops who provide a security situation that allows Iraqi children to attend school are helping those same children here get the most of that experience.

"I have always been a believer that when you are in school the only thing you should worry about is learning, and all teachers should be worried about is teaching," said Army 1st Lt. Reimund G. Manneck Jr., fire support officer with Company A, 1st Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment.

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Iraqis Increasingly Side With Coalition, Colonel Says

By Kristen Noel | Special to American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Dec. 26, 2007 - The Iraqi people increasingly are siding with the coalition against extremists in their country, a unit commander there said.

Army Col. Daniel Ball, commander of the 3rd Infantry Division's Combat Aviation Brigade, is on his third rotation to Iraq and said he is seeing increased trust among the Iraqis.

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Petraeus: Violence Down in Iraq; Al Qaeda Still a Threat

By Melinda L. Larson | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Dec. 23, 2007 - Violence is down about 60 percent in Iraq since the June troop surge, and the top military commander in Iraq said today that he wants the trend to continue in 2008.

"Every trend we watch is down roughly about 60 percent: civilian deaths, numbers of attacks, and thankfully our casualties are down as well," Army Gen. David H. Petraeus, commander of Multinational Force Iraq, said on "Fox News Sunday." "As we go into the new year, we clearly want to build on the momentum that has been achieved by our forces working closely together with Iraqi forces."

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Wednesday, December 19, 2007

Troops Kill 5, Nab 30, Destroy Terrorist Tunnels in Iraq

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18, 2007 - Iraqi and coalition forces killed five suspected terrorists, detained 30 others and destroyed insurgent tunnels and weapons in Iraq over the past three days, military officials said.

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Concerned Citizens Turn Over Large Cache in Iraq

By Maj. Joe Sowers, USA | Special to American Forces Press Service
FORWARD OPERATING BASE HAMMER, Iraq, Dec. 18, 2007 - Concerned local citizens near Bawi, Iraq, handed over a large weapons cache to soldiers from Company A, 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, Dec. 16.

The seizure of the cache came just one day after Company A soldiers and concerned local citizens cleared the main route into Bawi from the north in a combined operation.

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Tuesday, December 18, 2007

Troops Detain Two, Nab Weapons, Aid Attack Victims in Afghanistan

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Dec. 17, 2007 - Afghan and coalition troops detained two suspected Taliban members, seized weapons caches, and administered vital medical treatment to bombing victims in Afghanistan over the past week, military officials said.

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Coalition Troops Kill Six, Seize 29 Suspected Terrorists in Iraq

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Dec. 17, 2007 - Coalition forces killed six suspected terrorists, detained 29 others and destroyed five weapons caches in Iraq over the past five days, military officials said.

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Basra Province Returns to Iraqi Control

By B.J. Weiner and Mohammed Aliwi | Special to American Forces Press Service
BASRA, Iraq, Dec. 17, 2007 - Multinational Division Southeast relinquished control of Iraq's Basra province to the Iraqi government yesterday at Basra International Airport.

Basra Gov. Mohammed Musabeh Al Waelee signed the official transfer papers along with British Maj. Gen. Graham Binns, the division's commander. Iraqi National Security Advisor Mowaffak al-Rubaie spoke at the ceremony along with Binns and Waelee.

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Commander Reflects on Successes in Baghdad

By Sgt. Sara Moore, USA | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Dec. 17, 2007 - In partnership with Iraqi forces and concerned local citizens, coalition forces in Baghdad have made significant progress against al Qaeda and have helped foster reconciliation, the commander of U.S. forces in the Iraqi capital said today.

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Friday, December 14, 2007

U.S. Troops Help Renovate Iraqi Clinic

By Sgt. Natalie Rostek, USA | Special to American Forces Press Service
COMBAT OUTPOST CLEARY, Iraq, Dec. 14, 2007 - Soldiers and leaders of 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, attended a ribbon-cutting ceremony Dec. 11 to open a health clinic in Wahida, Iraq.

Four months ago, city council members came to the regiment's leaders with concerns about the existing clinic's lack of space and equipment, said Army Capt. Matthew Givens, from Columbus, Ga., the battalion's non-lethal effects officer.

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Thursday, December 13, 2007

Coalition, Iraqi Troops Kill 14, Detain 13 Insurgents

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Dec. 12, 2007 - Coalition and Iraqi forces killed 14 terrorists and detained 13 suspected insurgents during operations targeting al Qaeda networks in Iraq today and yesterday.

During an operation northwest of Muqdadiyah, coalition forces killed 14 terrorists as part of a sweep targeting associates of an al Qaeda in Iraq chieftain thought to be the leader of a group operating in the northeastern Diyala River Valley region.

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Wednesday, December 12, 2007

50 Fleeing Taliban Fighters Killed After Afghan Fight

December 12, 2007 | Associated Press
KANDAHAR, Afghanistan - Afghan soldiers backed by NATO air power killed more than 50 Taliban fighters during a two-day battle with militants who tried to attack a southern Afghan town near the one they were routed from this week, Afghanistan's Defense Ministry said Wednesday.

Afghan soldiers fought the insurgents in Sangin, a town in Helmand province that neighbors Musa Qala, which Taliban fighters had controlled since February before abandoning it this week in the face of an offensive by Afghan, British and U.S. forces.

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Iraq Operations Net Key Suspects; Rocket Attacks Drop

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Dec. 11, 2007 - Coalition forces in Iraq killed one terrorist, captured another and detained 30 suspects in operations today.

West of Khalis, coalition forces killed one man and captured nine thought to be involved in an al Qaeda network in northern Baghdad responsible for car bombings and explosive attacks. The network also is involved in extortion, weapons trafficking and facilitating foreign terrorists.

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Tuesday, December 11, 2007

Forces Capture Numerous Terrorist Suspects in Iraq

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Dec. 10, 2007 - Coalition forces captured several wanted individuals and dozens of additional suspects during operations over the past several days targeting al Qaeda networks throughout Iraq.

Coalition forces captured a wanted individual in Mosul believed to be a foreign terrorist facilitator associated with senior facilitators operating in and outside of Iraq. The wanted individual reportedly is involved in facilitating supplies and finances for use in attacks against coalition forces.

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Concerned Citizens Help to Stem Violence in Iraq

By Fred W. Baker III | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Dec. 10, 2007 - Lacking technology that can see bombs inside cars or explosive vests under clothing, coalition forces are getting help from local concerned citizen groups to get "ahead of the blast" in what officials say is the most effective way to stem those types of violence.

Officials are using the surge of tips from local groups to attack networks of insurgent activities. The payoff has been a 60-percent drop in attacks in the country in the past six months, Navy Rear Adm. Gregory J. Smith, director of communications and deputy spokesman for Multinational Corps Iraq, said in a news briefing to reporters yesterday. There has been a 15-percent drop in improvised explosive device attacks between October and November, he said.

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Reduced Violence in Iraq Enables More Emphasis on Long-Term Stability

By Kristen Noel | Special to American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Dec. 10, 2007 - Violence in Iraq has been stabilized enough to allow governmental, economic and social advances to move forward, a Multinational Corps Iraq official said.

Violence levels are at their lowest since January 2006, Army Brig. Gen. Joseph Anderson, the command's chief of staff, reported during a conference call with online journalists and "bloggers" Dec. 7.

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Monday, December 10, 2007

Coalition, Afghan Forces Defeat Taliban in Two Operations

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Dec. 7, 2007 - Afghan and coalition soldiers foiled a Taliban ambush in the Kariz-e Sadeqin area of Afghanistan's Farah province Dec. 5, military officials reported.

The combined force was conducting a reconnaissance mission for a weapons cache when two squad-size elements of insurgents ambushed them with small arms, rockets and indirect fire. Afghan forces returned fire with small arms and mortars, which allowed them to outmaneuver the insurgent forces and engage them with close-air support.

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Coalition Forces Detain Dozens of Terrorists in Iraq Operations

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Dec. 7, 2007 - Coalition forces captured two wanted individuals and seven additional suspects during an operation today to disrupt al Qaeda networks in Iraq's capital city.

The wanted individuals reportedly are al Qaeda leaders in the Karkh area and are believed to have been involved in planning a future car-bombing attack in the city. The two wanted individuals allegedly are close associates of several other senior leaders involved in the network's car-bombing operations. In addition to the wanted individuals, the ground force detained seven suspects without incident.

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Friday, December 7, 2007

Terrorist Networks Disrupted; Three Terrorists Killed, 19 Detained

American Forces Press Service
BAGHDAD, Dec. 6, 2007 - Coalition forces killed three terrorists and detained 19 suspects during operations today to disrupt al Qaeda activities along the Tigris River Valley in Iraq.

Coalition forces captured a wanted individual during an operation targeting alleged associates of the terrorist network north of Baghdad. The wanted individual is believed to be involved in the network's car-bombing operations, including procuring and delivering vehicles for attacks. As the ground force arrived at the area, an armed man emerged, maneuvering west of the target building. Coalition forces engaged, killing the armed man. The ground force detained five suspects in addition to the targeted individual.

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Wednesday, December 5, 2007

Troops Detain Suspected Taliban Extremists, Find Weapons

American Forces Press Service
BAGRAM AIR BASE, Afghanistan, Dec. 4, 2007 - Coalition forces detained four suspected militants during an operation yesterday in Afghanistan's Oruzgan province to disrupt extremist networks.

Forces conducted a search of compounds in the Deh Rawod district targeting Taliban insurgents reported to be conducting insurgent operations. Intelligence reports also indicated Taliban insurgents were actively engaged in facilitating foreign-fighter networks.

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Coalition Forces Disrupt Terrorist Elements in Iraq

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Dec. 4, 2007 - Coalition forces killed two terrorists and detained 25 suspects today during operations designed to disrupt al Qaeda operations in central and northern Iraq.

Coalition forces killed a wanted terrorist believed to be an al Qaeda media cell leader south of Baqouba. As coalition forces moved to secure two targeted buildings, two men were seen maneuvering into the palm groves nearby. Perceiving hostile intent, forces engaged, killing both terrorists. One of the terrorists killed was later identified as the wanted individual. During the operation, the ground force discovered a large amount of al Qaeda propaganda materials. Coalition forces detained three suspects during the operation.

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Coalition, Iraqi Forces Make Gains Against al Qaeda

By Sgt. Sara Moore, USA | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Dec. 4, 2007 - While the fight in Iraq remains tough, coalition and Iraqi forces have made significant gains against al Qaeda recently, a U.S. military spokesman there said today.

In November, coalition and Iraqi forces killed or captured 40 al Qaeda in Iraq leaders, U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Kevin J. Bergner, Multinational Force Iraq spokesman, told reporters in Baghdad. Those leaders included senior-level emirs, improvised-explosive-device cell leaders, foreign terrorist facilitators, and facilitators of logistics, communications and finances for terrorist networks.

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Tuesday, December 4, 2007

Precision Coalition Strike Kills Several Militants in Afghanistan

American Forces Press Service
BAGRAM AIR BASE, Afghanistan, Dec. 3, 2007 - Several militants were killed during a coalition operation yesterday targeting Taliban command-and-control networks in Afghanistan's Helmand province.

Coalition forces conducted a precision-guided munitions strike targeting a senior Taliban commander believed to be involved in the March kidnapping of Italian journalist Daniele Mastrogiacomo, his interpreter and his driver. Reports indicate the individual also is responsible for a number of mortar attacks on coalition bases, as well as several improvised-explosive-device attacks.

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Coalition Forces Disrupt Terrorist Operations, Detain Seven

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Dec. 3, 2007 - Coalition forces detained seven suspects during operations today to disrupt al Qaeda operations in Tarmiyah, Iraq.

During one operation, coalition forces captured a wanted individual believed to be an associate of an al Qaeda in Iraq senior leader involved in the northern belt terrorist network. Coalition forces approached the target building and called for the occupants to come out. The ground force detained five suspected terrorists, including the wanted individual, who identified himself to coalition forces. Upon securing the area, they found a machine gun and pistol.

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Thursday, November 29, 2007

Troops Detain Dozens, Kill Suspected Terrorist in Iraq

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 28, 2007 - Iraqi and coalition forces captured 32 suspected terrorists and killed another in Iraq over the past three days, military officials said.

During an operation in Mosul today, coalition forces captured a wanted individual believed to be an al Qaeda in Iraq leader with connections to terrorist operations. The suspect, who allegedly received foreign funding, has waged a campaign of murder and intimidation, hijacking fuel trucks, manufacturing car bombs, and using improvised explosive devices against coalition forces, military officials said.

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Officials Open School, Health Clinic in Afghanistan

By Capt. Erick Saks, USAF | Special to American Forces Press Service
KAPISA PROVINCE, Afghanistan, Nov. 28, 2007 - Months of work and cooperation between the Bagram Provincial Reconstruction Team and the Afghan government culminated in two ribbon-cutting ceremonies Nov. 26, as hundreds of community members and several civic leaders officially opened a girls school and a health clinic in the Kapisa province's Kohistan II district.

Kapisa Gov. Kwaia Kholam Abubaker and Army Capt. Jordan Berry, Bagram PRT's Kapisa civil affairs team leader, presided over the ceremonies opening the Dihat Dasht girls school and the Jamalagha basic health clinic.

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Troops Visit Two Southern Baghdad Schools

By Cpl. Ben Washburn, USA | Special to American Forces Press Service
BAGHDAD, Nov. 28, 2007 - Despite being on the ground here for only a month, the 4-64th Combined Arms Battalion, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, has hit the ground running.

The "Tuskers" - currently operating in the southern region of the Iraqi capital attached to the 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division - continued their efforts to improve the life of Iraqi citizens by visiting two schools in the Saydiyah neighborhood Nov. 26.

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Wednesday, November 28, 2007

Coalition, Iraqi Troops Continue to Pressure al Qaeda

By Gerry J. Gilmore | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 27, 2007 - Coalition and Iraqi operations are keeping up the pressure on al Qaeda insurgents in Iraq, a senior U.S. military official told reporters in Baghdad today.

Although al Qaeda in Iraq "retains the capacity" to replace a series of leaders killed or captured in recent months during engagements against coalition troops and Iraqi security forces, the terrorist group clearly is under duress, said Navy Rear Adm. Gregory J. Smith, a Multinational Force Iraq spokesman.

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Troops Kill Four, Seize Large Weapons Cache in Iraq

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 27, 2007 - Iraqi and coalition forces killed four suspected terrorists yesterday in an operation that also claimed the life of a child. Meanwhile, combined forces uncovered a significant weapons cache, military officials said.

In a raid targeting al Qaeda networks north of Beiji, coalition forces saw several individuals maneuvering near an area reported to be a terrorist logistical base and safe haven, military officials said. The ground force called for supporting aircraft, which engaged and killed two suspected terrorists.

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Afghan Forces Seize Ammunition Cache in Nangahar

American Forces Press Service
BAGRAM AIR BASE, Afghanistan, Nov. 27, 2007 - Afghan national security forces confiscated an ammunition cache in Khana village in the Sherzad district of Afghanistan's Nangahar province yesterday.

The Afghan-led forces planned and executed the mission after receiving credible information of a possible ammunition cache in their area. The forces located and searched the suspected area where they found and recovered 70 rocket-propelled grenade boosters.

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Tuesday, November 27, 2007

Security Improvements Pave Way for Iraqi Infrastructure Projects

By Donna Miles | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 26, 2007 - The improved security environment in Iraq is creating conditions that promote the large-scale infrastructure projects under way to support Iraq's security forces, a defense official in Iraq told online journalists and "bloggers" today.

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Iraqis Build Fallujah's First Sewage System

By Norris Jones | Special to American Forces Press Service
FALLUJAH, Iraq, Nov. 26, 2007 - About 450 Iraqis are working to get Fallujah's first sewer system operational by summer.

That number is expected to grow soon to a construction force of 700 Iraqis. The $85 million project includes a collection system, trunk mains, pump stations and a wastewater treatment plant processing 10.5 million gallons of water a day.

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Troop Redeployment Gets Under Way in Iraq

By Jim Garamone | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 26, 2007 - The first reduction in American forces in Iraq is under way as the 3rd Brigade Combat Team of the 1st Cavalry Division heads back to Fort Hood, Texas.

The brigade will not be replaced. Roughly 162,000 U.S. troops are in Iraq in 20 brigade teams or their Marine equivalents. If all goes well, this will drop to 15 brigade combat teams over the next eight months, Navy Rear Adm. Gregory J. Smith, a spokesman for Multinational Force Iraq in Baghdad, said Nov. 24.

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Afghan Commandos Detain Several Taliban Extremists

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 26, 2007 - Afghanistan's elite military force detained several suspected insurgents during an operation in the Zormat district of Paktya province yesterday, officials said.

The Afghan commandos targeted a Taliban bomb-making site during an early morning raid in Sheykhan village. The Taliban responded with sporadic gunfire in an attempt to defend their position. After the brief firefight, several Taliban suspects were taken into custody for further investigation.

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Coalition Forces Target Enemy in Tigris River Valley

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 26, 2007 - Coalition forces detained 10 suspects today during operations targeting al Qaeda networks along Iraq's Tigris River Valley.

The forces conducted several operations targeting associates of al Qaeda in Iraq leaders, including foreign terrorist facilitators and planners of car-bombing attacks. During the operations, coalition forces captured two wanted individuals and detained eight suspects.

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Sunday, November 25, 2007

Troops Detain 7 in Raids on al Qaeda Media Network

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 23, 2007 - Coalition forces in Iraq detained seven suspects today in three coordinated operations targeting al Qaeda's media network southeast of Samarra.

One of the targeted buildings is believed to be used as a propaganda production facility and meeting location for senior leaders, officials said.

Wednesday, November 21, 2007

Coalition Forces Kill 5 Terrorists, Detain 11 in Iraq

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 20, 2007 - Coalition forces killed five terrorists and detained 11 suspects affiliated with the al Qaeda network in Iraq during several operations in central and northern Iraq that ended today, officials said.

During operations conducted yesterday and today in Rabiyah and northern Samarra, coalition forces captured a wanted individual while targeting al Qaeda financial and courier operations. The captured individual is believed to be associated with propaganda operations and senior terrorist leaders. During the operation, coalition forces saw one individual maneuver into the palm groves. Perceiving hostile intent, the ground force called for supporting aircraft to engage, killing the terrorist. Coalition forces detained three suspects, in addition to the wanted individual.

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Tuesday, November 20, 2007

Operation Marne Courageous Targets Al Qaeda in Anbar Province

By Tim Kilbride | Special to American Forces Press Service
BAGHDAD, Nov. 19, 2007 - Coalition forces, Iraqi army soldiers and concerned local citizens near the border of Anbar province are working together to drive out al Qaeda in Iraq operatives during Operation Marne Courageous, according to Multinational Division Center public affairs officials.

More than 600 coalition troops, about 150 Iraqi soldiers and about 70 concerned local citizens are taking part in the operation, which kicked off Nov. 16. The forces went into two villages neighboring the border of Anbar province to lay groundwork for a coalition presence, officials said.

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Coalition, Iraqi Troops Have 'Momentum,' Official Says

By Gerry J. Gilmore | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 19, 2007 - Terrorist-committed violence in Iraq has plummeted since the start of the surge of forces, a senior U.S. officer reported yesterday from Baghdad.

"Terrorist attacks are at their lowest level since January 2006," Navy Rear Adm. Gregory J. Smith, a Multinational Force Iraq spokesman, told reporters at a Baghdad news conference. The overall number of attacks in Iraq is 55 percent lower than the period before the surge took hold in June, Smith said.

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Iraqi Forces, Local Citizens Help to Reduce Violence in Northern Iraq

By Donna Miles | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 19, 2007 - A robust partnership between coalition troops and Iraqi security forces and support from the Iraqi people is showing success in bringing down violence in Iraq's Multinational Division North sector, the troop commander there said today.

Army Maj. Gen. Mark P. Hertling, who also commands the Germany-based 1st Armored Division, told Pentagon reporters via videoconference that attacks in his area of operations are higher than anywhere else in Iraq.

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Forces Detain 27 Suspects While Targeting al Qaeda Networks in Iraq

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 19, 2007 - Coalition forces detained 27 suspects yesterday during operations targeting al Qaeda networks in central and northern Iraq.

Forces captured three wanted individuals during operations in Baghdad while targeting foreign terrorist and weapons facilitators. Reports indicate al Qaeda members were trying to establish a foreign terrorist network in the city. In addition to the wanted individuals, coalition forces detained four suspects without incident.

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Friday, November 16, 2007

Officials Believe Iran Has Stemmed Weapons Flow Into Iraq, General Says

By Donna Miles | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15, 2007 - Recent weapons cache finds in Iraq indicate that the Iranian government is living up to its promise to Iraqi leaders to stem the flow of weapons across the border into Iraq, a senior U.S. general in Baghdad told reporters today.

Army Maj. Gen. James E. Simmons, Multinational Corps Iraq's deputy commander for support, said coalition troops and Iraqi security forces continue to find Iranian weapons in caches they uncover.

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IED Attacks Down Significantly; Enemy Being Pushed North, General Says

By Donna Miles | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15, 2007 - Initiatives taken in Iraq over the past 11 months have reduced improvised-explosive-device attacks dramatically and sent the enemy scrambling, Multinational Corps Iraq’s deputy commander for support told reporters in Baghdad today.

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Troops Detain 26 Suspects, Uncover Five Car Bombs in Iraq

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15, 2007 - Iraqi and coalition forces detained dozens of insurgents and discovered five car bombs in Iraq in recent days, military officials said.

During a series of operations yesterday targeting terrorist networks in central and northern Iraq, combined forces nabbed 26 suspects.

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Wednesday, November 14, 2007

Progress in Northern, Western Baghdad 'Remarkable,' Commander Says

By Donna Miles | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13, 2007 - The transformation of the northern and western outskirts of Baghdad "has been nothing short of remarkable," the commander of 1st Cavalry Division's 1st Brigade Combat Team operating there said today.

Army Col. Paul E. Funk II cited significant progress in the security environment since his "Iron Horse Brigade" arrived in Baghdad in December. He pointed to close cooperation between the Iraqi army, Iraqi police from the local Sunni and Shiite tribes. They've "grown weary of the intimidation tactics of extremist elements (and are) working together to secure their homes, their children and their future through coordination amongst themselves, the tribes and the local governments," he said.

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Coalition Troops Kill Terrorist, Detain 14 in Iraq

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13, 2007 - Coalition forces killed one insurgent and detained 14 others today during a series of operations across central and northern Iraq, military officials said.

-- Coalition forces killed one al Qaeda-linked insurgent during an operation in Mosul. He was linked to the planning of attacks against Iraqi and coalition forces, including several suicide-car-bombing attacks. Another individual was detained for questioning. A deceased Iraqi woman and an injured child were found inside a nearby building. The child later died after being taken to a medical facility for treatment.

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Coalition, Afghan Forces Kill Enemy Fighters

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13, 2007 - Afghan national security forces and coalition forces engaged and killed a large group of insurgents today near the Deh Rawod district of Afghanistan's Oruzgan province.

The combined force was conducting a reconnaissance patrol when a large group of insurgents engaged the patrol with small-arms fire and rocket-propelled grenades. The Taliban fighters attempted to break contact and moved into a nearby compound, causing women and children to flee the area.

Shortly after the combined force determined the enemy's positions, four separate precision air strikes effectively eliminated the insurgents who were trying to reinforce the enemy positions. Afghan and coalition forces assaulted the positions, conducting a thorough exploitation of the engagement area, officials said.

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Tuesday, November 13, 2007

Coalition Forces Detain Dozens in Iraq Operations

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 11, 2007 - Coalition forces detained 16 suspects, including three wanted individuals, during operations today to disrupt al Qaeda in Iraq and foreign terrorist operations in central and northern Iraq.

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Terrorist Facilitators Detained in Zabul Province

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 11, 2007 - An Afghan and coalition operation in Afghanistan's Ghazni province yesterday resulted in the detention of five people suspected of being foreign-fighter facilitators.

The combined force of Afghan and coalition members conducted a search of a compound in the district where the foreign fighter facilitators were hiding. During the search, the combined force detained the five individuals.

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Friday, November 9, 2007

Officials Identify Taliban Leaders Captured in Afghanistan

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 8, 2007 - Coalition forces today announced the positive identification of two Taliban members who were detained during an operation in late October to disrupt suicide-bomber operations in Afghanistan's Wardak province.

Jawed, also known as Latif Allah, and Mohammadullah were detained by coalition forces in the Nerkh district during an operation in which two other militants were killed in a firefight. Several weapons, including more than 500 feet of detonation cord and several mortar rounds, also were discovered during the operation and destroyed to prevent use by militant forces.

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Coalition Forces Capture Terrorism Suspects in Iraq

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 8, 2007 - Coalition forces captured a suspected terrorist and detained four other suspects today during operations in central and northern Iraq.

During operations in Mosul, coalition forces captured a wanted individual reported to be a judge in a terrorist illegal court system in the city. The suspect is believed to be involved in ordering and approving abductions and executions, as well as facilitating the transfer of money and weapons to local terrorist leaders. Coalition forces secured the target area without incident. The wanted individual identified himself to the ground force, and he was detained.

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Thursday, November 8, 2007

Troops Disrupt al Qaeda Networks in Iraq, Find Detention Facility

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 7, 2007 - Coalition forces killed three terrorists and detained nine suspects today during operations to disrupt al Qaeda and foreign terrorist networks in central and northern Iraq.

During an operation west of Abu Ghraib, coalition forces targeted an alleged associate of several senior terrorist leaders in Kirkuk. Reports also indicate the targeted individual has information about foreign terrorists in the area. As the force secured the target, several men, one of whom was armed, maneuvered toward them. The suspected terrorists did not comply with the force's instructions. The armed men continued to maneuver toward coalition troops, who engaged and killed them. Coalition forces detained two suspects.

Read the whole story here.

Face of Defense: Fourth Deployment Brings Reflection to Marine

By Gunnery Sgt. Brenda L. Varnadore, USMC | Special to American Forces Press Service
RAMADI, Iraq, Nov. 7, 2007 - Marine Sgt. David Smith III said he believes joining the Marine Corps for action was the right decision. He has been a part of many conflicts in his four years in the Marine Corps and would have it no other way.

Smith, a squad leader with Company C, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, joined the Marine Corps with the desire to see what was outside Port Huron, Mich., where he grew up, while helping others experience the freedom he enjoyed in his younger years.

Read the whole story here.

Coalition Forces See Iraqi Neighborhood's Markets Flourish

By Spc. Alexis Harrison, USA | American Forces Press Service
BAGHDAD, Nov. 7, 2007 - Just a few months ago, Operation Rogue Thunder began to reclaim the streets of Jamia and Adel, Iraq, from the grip of violence. Today, the streets not only are peaceful, they're also thriving.

Troops from 3rd Battalion, 5th Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division Military Transition Team; 1st Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment; and their Iraqi counterparts have seen what was once a community gripped by fear come out of hiding and begin living for the first time in a long time.

Read the whole story here.

Wednesday, November 7, 2007

IED, Indirect-Fire Attacks Down By Half Since Troop Surge

By John J. Kruzel | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 6, 2007 - Improvised-explosive-device, mortar and rocket attacks have declined by 50 percent since the height of the troop surge in April, a Multinational Force Iraq spokesman said today. (Video)

Related to this dramatic decrease is a rise in the number of weapons caches uncovered by coalition forces, Navy Rear Adm. Gregory J. Smith told reporters during a news conference in Baghdad.

Read the whole article here.

Concerned Iraqi Citizens Help 'Sledgehammer' Brigade Smash Crime

By David Mays | Special to American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 6, 2007 - Crime has been slashed by 50 percent in an area just outside Baghdad, thanks to Iraqi citizens partnering with coalition soldiers who live among them, an American commander said today.

"After seven months in the area of operation, the people know us, and they know who we are, and they know we're here to help," Army Col. Wayne W. Grigsby Jr. told online journalists and "bloggers" during a conference call from Iraq. "We do not drive or commute to work anymore. We live in the towns with the people that we are here to help."

Read the whole article here.

Coalition Forces Disrupt Foreign Terrorist, al Qaeda Networks

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 6, 2007 - Coalition forces killed eight terrorists and detained 10 suspects today during operations to disrupt al Qaeda and foreign terrorist networks in central and northern Iraq.

Coalition forces targeted a suspected terrorist involved in planning improvised-explosive-device attacks and facilitating foreign terrorists during operations in Tuz, south of Kirkuk. Reports indicate he was a chief planner of July suicide car-bomb attacks that killed more than 70 Iraqi people and injured more than 130 in Kirkuk.

Read the whole article here.

Tuesday, November 6, 2007

Urban Centers in Iraq's Anbar Province Enjoying Stability, Renewal

By John J. Kruzel | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 5, 2007 - Iraqi and coalition forces have largely purged extremists from urban areas in Iraq's Anbar province over the past 10 months, allowing renewal efforts to flourish with reduced meddling by terrorists, a coalition commander in the region said today. (Video)

During a video teleconference from Fallujah, Iraq, Marine Col. Stacy Clardy, commander of Regimental Combat Team 2, told reporters at the Pentagon that the combined force is achieving peace in the western Iraqi province.

Read the whole article here.

New Iraq Offensive Kicks Off; Five Terrorists Killed

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 5, 2007 - Coalition and Iraqi forces launched a major offensive, called Operation Iron Hammer, across four northern Iraqi provinces today, while five terrorists were killed and 30 others were captured in separate actions in the central and northern parts of the country, military officials said.

Operation Iron Hammer involves three U.S. brigade combat teams and three Iraqi army divisions. It is designed to exploit previous successes against al Qaeda and set the conditions for continued reconciliation efforts in key northern provinces, U.S. officials said.

Read the whole article here.

Combined Forces Work to Disrupt Militant Recruiting Operations

American Forces Press Service
BAGRAM AIR BASE, Afghanistan , Nov. 5, 2007 - An Afghan and coalition forces operation yesterday in Afghanistan's Ghazni province disrupted foreign fighter and Taliban recruiting networks. Six people were detained, one of whom was wounded, and two other militants were killed.

Afghan and coalition forces conducted a search of several compounds in the Deh Yak district of Ghazni province, where intelligence reports indicated militant recruiting networks were operating.

Read the whole article here.

Monday, November 5, 2007

Troops Repel Two Ambushes in Afghanistan

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 4, 2007 - Coalition and Afghan troops repelled two Taliban-led ambushes in Afghanistan recently, killing an unknown number of enemy fighters, military officials said.

Afghan national security forces and coalition forces thwarted an insurgent ambush yesterday during a combat patrol in the Musa Qaleh Wadi region of Helmand province.
Taliban fighters fired on the patrol with small-arms fire, rocket-propelled grenades and mortars from a trench line, military officials said. The combined force repelled the initial attack with small arms and crew served weapons.

Coalition, Iraqi Forces Detain 17 Suspects in Iraq

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 4, 2007 - Coalition and Iraqi forces detained 17 suspects during recent operations in Iraq, military officials said.

In a raid yesterday morning, soldiers of the 11th Iraqi Army Division entered the Abu Hanifa Mosque in Baghdad's Adhamiyah neighorhood and detained 12 suspects, including two known terrorists who were using the mosque as a base.

Friday, November 2, 2007

More Iraqi Citizens Identify with Government, Coalition

By Jim Garamone | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 1, 2007 - One sign of the improved security environment in Iraq is the growing number of Iraqis stepping forward to take back their communities from extremists, a top coalition commander said today.

Speaking to Pentagon reporters via teleconference from Baghdad, Army Lt. Gen. Raymond T. Odierno said concerned local citizens across Iraq are providing valuable information to the coalition and Iraqi security forces.

Iraqi Army, Volunteers, Cavalry Troops Celebrate Success in Ameriya

American Forces Press Service
CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq , Nov. 1, 2007 - Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, hosted a social gathering, including a cookout and a soccer tournament, for Iraqi army troops and a volunteer group from Ameriya, a neighborhood in the Mansour district of western Baghdad on Oct. 28.

"Today is a chance for us to get together with our partners in Ameriya," said Huntsville, Ala., native Army Lt. Col. Dale Kuehl, commander of 1-5 Cav. His unit operates in Ameriya attached to 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division.

Afghan Forces Kill Senior Enemy Commander, Several Fighters

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 1, 2007 - Afghan security forces killed a top-ranking enemy commander, identified as Malawi Abdul Manan, along with several other enemy fighters in Afghanistan's Khost province Oct. 28, officials announced today.

Afghan soldiers spotted 12 enemy fighters attempting to infiltrate from Pakistan near a border checkpoint in the Spira district. They set up an ambush, engaged the fighters with small-arms fire, and killed several, including the infamous Abdul Manan.

Progress in Iraq Real, Momentum Growing, Odierno Says

By Jim Garamone | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 1, 2007 - Coalition and Iraqi troops are creating security in Iraq, and life is returning to normal for the vast majority of Iraqi citizens. But the momentum is not irreversible, the commander of Multinational Corps Iraq said today.

Coalition and Iraqi troops have been able to break the cycle of violence in the country, and all trends are positive, Army Lt. Gen. Raymond T. Odierno told Pentagon reporters via teleconference from his headquarters at Camp Victory, Iraq

Coalition Forces Target Foreign Terrorist Facilitators in Iraq

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 1, 2007 - Coalition forces detained 12 suspects during operations early today targeting al Qaeda networks in central and northern Iraq.

Surveillance elements led coalition forces to a location in Mosul, where they captured a wanted individual and three suspected terrorists. The wanted individual reportedly is an associate of al Qaeda members involved in foreign terrorist facilitation, to include one who was captured in a coalition operation in Bayji on Oct. 26.

Thursday, November 1, 2007

Al Qaeda on the Run in Iraq, Coalition Spokesman Says

By Fred W. Baker III | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 31, 2007 - Al Qaeda may not yet be defeated in Iraq, but the group's terrorists are on the run, a senior official in the area said today.

"We've taken out a significant part of their leadership. We've gone after their foreign fighter facilitation network. We've gone after their financial networks. And... we also have gone after very heavily their propaganda network," said Navy Rear Adm. Gregory J. Smith, spokesman for Multinational Force Iraq, via telephone to a group of military analysts.

Coalition, Afghan Forces Kill Taliban Fighters

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 31, 2007 - Afghan and coalition forces killed several Taliban fighters and captured three insurgents near Tarin Kowt village in Afghanistan's Oruzgan province today.

The combined force was conducting a reconnaissance patrol when Taliban fighters engaged them with small-arms fire. Forces returned small-arms and machine-gun fire, quickly putting the enemy on the defensive. The insurgents attempted to break contact and moved into a nearby compound.

Forces Capture Suspected al Qaeda Commander, Detain 11 Others in Iraq

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 31, 2007 - Coalition forces captured a wanted individual and detained 11 others today during an operation in support of ongoing efforts to stabilize the region.

The captured suspect is a "special groups" commander with close ties to several other criminal organization members. Intelligence reports further indicate the suspect conducted multiple types of criminal operations in the Khalis and Qasirin areas. The suspected criminal appears to be directly linked to providing lethal weapons used against coalition and Iraqi security forces and innocent civilians, officials said.

Efforts in Eastern Afghanistan Boost Confidence in Afghan Government

By Donna Miles | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 31, 2007 - Progress in eastern Afghanistan continues as more Afghan security forces take the lead in security operations, more reconstruction and development projects provide sorely needed quality-of-life improvements, and the national government extends its reach, a senior military officer in the region said today.

Company Works to Flush Out Taliban During 'Rock Avalanche'

By Sgt. 1st Class Jacob Caldwell, USA | Special to American Forces Press Service
KUNAR PROVINCE, Afghanistan, Oct. 31, 2007 - Under the cover of darkness, soldiers from Company A, 2nd Battalion, 503rd Infantry (Airborne), air-assaulted about three miles south of their forward operating bases in the Pech River Valley earlier this month as part of Operation Rock Avalanche.

Operation Rock Avalanche was a multiple-company mission that ran Oct. 19-25 in the Chapa Dara, Korengal, Shuryak and Pech river valleys. Participating were "Able," "Battle" and "Chosen" companies from 2nd Battalion; Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 508th Infantry (Airborne); and multiple companies from the Afghan National Army's 201st Corps. The companies were positioned into different areas of Kunar province at different times, hoping to flush insurgents out of one area into another, where U.S. and Afghan forces would be waiting for them.

Wednesday, October 31, 2007

Afghan, Coalition Forces Detain Six, Uncover Weapons Cache

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 30, 2007 - Afghan and coalition forces detained six suspected insurgents during an operation in Kandahar City, Afghanistan, early this morning.

Forces Rescue Kidnapped Sheiks in Northern Baghdad

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 30, 2007 - Seven sheiks kidnapped in northern Baghdad two days ago were rescued by soldiers from 9th Iraqi Army Division during a mission yesterday.

U.S. Soldiers in Iraq Free Hostage From al Qaeda

American Forces Press Service
BAQOUBA, Iraq, Oct. 30, 2007 - A 19-year-old man was rescued from an al Qaeda-in-Iraq prison in the village of Hammadi, 10 miles southwest of Baqouba, by 2nd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, during an air assault Oct. 28.

Afghan Troops Plan Operations While Coalition Steps Back

By Staff Sgt. Luis P. Valdespino Jr., USMC | Special to American Forces Press Service
GARDEZ, Afghanistan, Oct. 30, 2007 - Afghan national security forces, continuing to move from supporting roles to lead roles, recently demonstrated their leadership skills by planning operations in Gardez to secure their country.

Tuesday, October 30, 2007

Job No. 1 in Northern Iraq: Keep al Qaeda on Ropes

By Jim Garamone | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 29, 2007 - Keeping al Qaeda "on the ropes" is job No. 1 for the 1st Armored Division and Multinational Division North, the organization's commander said today.

Army Maj. Gen. Mark P. Hertling, who took command of Multinational Division North yesterday, said his command is well-positioned for success following the great work done by the men and women of the 25th Infantry Division. He spoke to online journalists and "bloggers" from his base at Forward Operating Base Speicher, near Tikrit.

Coalition Troops Detain 11 Suspects in Iraq Operations

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 29, 2007 - Coalition forces detained 11 suspects today during operations to disrupt al Qaeda networks in central Iraq.

Combat Engineers Mentor, Help Afghans With Construction Projects

By Staff Sgt. Luis P. Valdespino Jr., USMC | Special to American Forces Press Service
GARDEZ, Afghanistan, Oct. 29, 2007 - Four combat engineers recently traveled from Kabul to Gardez to share their construction experience with Afghans hired to build housing units for military personnel assigned to Forward Operating Base Lightning.

Monday, October 29, 2007

Security Forces, Citizens Decrease Violence in Iraq

By Carmen L. Gleason | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 28, 2007 - Coalition and Iraqi security forces continue to make progress against al Qaeda and other criminal elements, thanks in large part to the efforts of concerned citizens throughout the country, a senior military official in Baghdad said during a briefing today.

In his first briefing since taking over as chief of Multinational Force Iraq's communications division, Navy Rear Adm. Gregory J. Smith said the recent detention of several key leaders in al Qaeda propaganda cells has proven that coalition forces are making an impact against al Qaeda in Iraq.

Afghan, Coalition Forces Kill Scores of Taliban During Six-Hour Fight

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 28, 2007 - Afghan and coalition forces engaged and killed more than six dozen Taliban fighters near the Musa Qaleh Wadi region of Afghanistan's Helmand province yesterday, officials reported.

A combined Afghan-coalition forces patrol was conducting reconnaissance when Taliban fighters engaged them with rocket and small-arms fire. The combined patrol immediately returned fire, maneuvered, and employed close-air support, resulting about 80 Taliban fighters killed during a six-hour engagement. During the battle, the combined force exchanged small-arms fire with the fleeing attackers, quickly putting them on the defensive.

Coalition Forces in Iraq Continue to Disrupt Terrorist Networks

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 28, 2007 - Coalition forces captured two wanted individuals and detained another four suspects early this morning during operations to disrupt al Qaeda networks in central and northern Iraq, and military officials report numerous weapons caches discovered and suspects detained in operations over past several days.

Thursday, October 25, 2007

Medal of Honor Winner Michael Murphy

On June 28, 2005, deep behind enemy lines east of Asadabad in the Hindu Kush of Afghanistan, a very committed four-man Navy SEAL team was conducting a reconnaissance mission at the unforgiving altitude of approximately 10,000 feet. The SEALs, Lt. Michael Murphy, Gunner’s Mate 2nd Class (SEAL) Danny Dietz, Sonar Technician 2nd Class (SEAL) Matthew Axelson and Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class (SEAL) Marcus Luttrell had a vital task. The four SEALs were scouting Ahmad Shah – a terrorist in his mid-30s who grew up in the adjacent mountains just to the south...

Read the entire summary here.

God Bless the family of this amazing American hero.

Shiites Work Against Extremists, Generals Say

By Jim Garamone | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 24, 2007 - A movement toward peace that began in mostly Sunni areas of Iraq now is moving into Shiite areas as well, a senior commander said in Baghdad today.

"Bound together by the desire for peace and prosperity, the Iraqi people are overcoming differences to provide a better future for their children," said Army Lt. Gen. Raymond T. Odierno, Multinational Corps Iraq commander.

Wednesday, October 24, 2007

Coalition Troops Kill 5 Taliban During Afghanistan Firefight

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 23, 2007 - Coalition forces in Afghanistan killed five Taliban militants during a firefight in the Jeldak district of Zabul province today.

Acting on credible intelligence, coalition forces were searching a nomadic camp when they came under small-arms fire by Taliban militants. Coalition forces returned fire, killing five of the extremists.

Twelve Terrorists Killed, 26 Detained In Iraq Operations

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 23, 2007 - Coalition troops killed 12 terrorists and detained 26 suspects during a series of operations across Iraq today.

Tuesday, October 23, 2007

Afghan, Coalition Forces Defeat Insurgents in Helmand Province

American Forces Press Service
BAGRAM AIR BASE, Afghanistan, Oct. 22, 2007 - Afghan and coalition forces engaged and killed nearly three dozen Taliban fighters in a second day of sustained fighting near the Musa Qaleh Wadi region of Helmand province today.

Saturday, October 20, 2007

US, Iraqi Forces Detain Militia Fighters

October 20 | By STEVEN R. HURST
BAGHDAD (AP) - U.S. and Iraqi forces, backed by Polish army helicopters, swept through Shiite militia strongholds south of Baghdad on Saturday, rounding up dozens of militants and killing two. The prime minister met the provincial governor, who called for reinforcements to root out "the criminals."

Friday, October 19, 2007

Coalition Forces Capture 15 Insurgents in Iraq Operations

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 18, 2007 - Coalition forces detained 15 suspected terrorists today during a series of operations targeting al Qaeda networks throughout Iraq.

Wednesday, October 17, 2007

Coalition Troops Net 17 Terrorists During Iraq Operations

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 17, 2007 - Coalition forces detained 17 suspected terrorists today during a series of operations that targeted al Qaeda networks in central and northern Iraq.

Tuesday, October 16, 2007

Troops Detain Five Suspected Militants, Assist Attack Victims

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 16, 2007 - Coalition forces detained five suspected militants and provided critical medical assistance to suicide-attack victims during recent Afghan operations.

Coalition Forces Pummel Taliban, Support Afghans as Winter Approaches

By David Mays | Special to American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 16, 2007 - Taliban fighters are facing overwhelming coalition firepower and abject rejection from Afghan citizens, a U.S. Army commander said today.

Coalition Forces Detain 10 Suspected Terrorists in Iraq

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 16, 2007 - Coalition forces captured four wanted individuals and detained six suspected terrorists today during operations to disrupt al Qaeda networks in central Iraq.

Monday, October 15, 2007

Troops in Iraq Capture Terrorists, Weapons Caches

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 15, 2007 - Coalition forces in Iraq captured 10 al Qaeda-linked terrorists during operations in central and northern Iraq today, while yesterday other troops in Baghdad discovered a huge weapons cache, officials said.

Coalition Detains Suspected Militant in Afghanistan

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 14, 2007 - Coalition forces detained a suspected militant during an operation today in Zabul province, Afghanistan, Combined Joint Task Force 82 officials reported.

Operations in Iraq Breaking Extremists' Hold

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 14, 2007 - Coalition forces have positively identified a terrorist killed in a recent operation as al Qaeda in Iraq leader Abu Duha, coalition officials announced today.

Saturday, October 13, 2007

Concerned Local Citizens Vastly Improve Security in Iraq’s Diyala Province

By David Mays | Special to American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 12, 2007 - Violence in Iraq's Diyala River Valley has been slashed in half thanks to citizen volunteers, a coalition commander said today.

Troops Seize Weapons, Thwart Insurgents in Afghanistan

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 12, 2007 - Coalition and Afghan forces seized a weapons cache and thwarted an insurgent ambush in Afghanistan recently, military officials said.

Friday, October 12, 2007

Troops Kill 13 Insurgents; Car Bombs Kill, Injure Iraqis

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 11, 2007 - Coalition forces killed 13 insurgents during an air strike near the Iraqi capital yesterday. Meanwhile, two car-bomb attacks in northern Iraq killed six and wounded 38, military officials said.

A coalition air strike killed 13 west of Baghdad yesterday, including three al Qaeda members responsible for assassinating a local imam, military officials said.

Stryker Cavalry Ridding Baghdad of Bombs, 'Bad Guys'

By David Mays | Special to American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 11, 2007 - U.S. soldiers are sweeping through a Baghdad neighborhood to clear out explosives and extremists, a coalition commander said today.

"We've been working in the East Rashid district going after the bad guys and doing very, very well and trying to give a little hope to the Iraqis ... so they don't have to live in fear any more," Army Col. John RisCassi told online journalists and "bloggers" during a conference call from Iraq.

Thursday, October 11, 2007

Coalition Operations in Iraq Kill 14 Terrorists, Net 12

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 10, 2007 - Coalition troops in Iraq killed 14 terrorists and captured 12 others during a series of operations in the central part of the country today and yesterday.

Wednesday, October 10, 2007

Afghan, U.S. Forces Nab Four Suspects, Net Big Ammo Cache

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 10, 2007 - Afghan and coalition security forces captured four suspected terrorists and seized a large weapons cache during two separate joint operations Oct. 8, officials said.

Tuesday, October 9, 2007

Coalition Troops Kill Seven, Detain 21 Terrorists

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9, 2007 - Coalition forces in Iraq killed seven terrorists and detained 21 others today during a series of anti-al Qaeda in Iraq operations in the central and northern parts of the country.

Friday, October 5, 2007

Iraqis Provide Crucial Help in Terrorist Fight

By David Mays | Special to American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 5, 2007 - Iraqi citizens increasingly are providing crucial information to rout out terrorists in southern Baghdad, a military commander said today.

PRTs Showing Progress in Afghanistan, Iraq; Civilian Reserve Needed

By Donna Miles | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 5, 2007 - Provincial reconstruction teams are extending the reach of the Afghan government and helping stabilize Iraq as its government transitions to self-reliance, a panel of Defense Department officials told Congress yesterday.

Troops Kill 37 Insurgents, Nab Four, Seize Weapons in Iraq

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 5, 2007 - Iraqi and coalition forces killed 37 enemy fighters, detained four suspects and seized weapons caches in Iraq over the past three days, military officials said.

Thursday, October 4, 2007

Troops Kill Five Insurgents, Seize Suspects, Weapons in Iraq

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 4, 2007 - Iraqi and coalition forces killed five insurgents, detained 20 suspects and seized weapons in Iraq over the past three days, military officials said.

Iraqi Security, Economic Efforts Make Continued Progress

By Gerry J. Gilmore | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 3, 2007 - Efforts to oust al Qaeda and other insurgents from Iraq and to revitalize the country's worn infrastructure continue to make progress, a senior U.S. military officer said in Baghdad today.

More Evidence Shows Iran Directly Supports Iraq Insurgents

By David Mays | Special to American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 3, 2007 - Coalition forces are finding more evidence that Iran is directly supporting insurgents in Iraq, a U.S. military officer said today.

Coalition Forces Detain 14 Suspects, Kill Six Terrorists

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 3, 2007 - Coalition forces killed six terrorists and captured 14 in operations over the past three days in central and northern Iraq, officials reported.

Tuesday, October 2, 2007

Coalition Raids Kill One, Net 10 Al Qaeda in Iraq Agents

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 2, 2007 - Coalition forces killed one terrorist and detained 10 suspects during a series of raids targeting al Qaeda in Iraq in central and northern Iraq today, officials reported.

Airstrike Kills 20-Plus Terrorists; Iraqis Nab 34 Suspects

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 1, 2007 - A coalition airstrike killed more than 20 militants, and Iraqi security forces accompanied by coalition advisors captured 34 suspected terrorists during operations across Iraq Sept. 29, officials reported.

Coalition, Afghan Troops Kill 22 Militants, Capture Seven

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 1, 2007 - Coalition and Afghan troops killed 22 militants and captured seven during separate operations in Afghanistan's Zabul and Helmand provinces today, officials reported.

Monday, October 1, 2007

Iraqi, Coalition Forces Continue to Pound Enemy Fighters

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 30, 2007 - Coalition and Iraq forces continued taking the fight to the enemy in a variety of recent operations.

Afghanistan Operations Disrupt Extremist Plans

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 30, 2007 - Afghan and coalition forces detained two suspected militants in Afghanistan's Paktika province, and Afghan National Police detained an improvised explosive device maker in Nangarhar province today.

Iraqi Troops, Police Pressure al Qaeda in Northern Iraq

By Gerry J. Gilmore | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2007 - Iraqi soldiers and police have al Qaeda terrorists on the run in the northern city of Mosul and its outlying areas, an Iraqi general posted in the region said today.

'Dragon' Offensives Destroy al Qaeda Outposts in Dora with Iraqi Assistanc

By David Mays | Special to American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2007 - Coalition offensives in southern Baghdad, spurred by Iraqi intelligence, have dramatically reduced al Qaeda-inspired violence, a military commander said today.

Coalition Kills al Qaeda Leader Who Coordinated Foreign Terrorists in Iraq

By Fred W. Baker III | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2007 - A top al Qaeda leader who coordinated efforts of foreign terrorists in Iraq was killed this week, a senior official in the region announced today.

Coalition Troops Capture Suspects, Seize Weapons in Iraq

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2007 - Coalition troops captured seven suspected terrorists and found two weapons caches today during operations targeting al Qaeda in Iraq, officials reported.

Wednesday, September 26, 2007

Despite Commitments, U.S. Forces Ready For Any Contingency

By Sgt. Sara Wood, USA | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 25, 2007 - The commitment of ground forces in Iraq and Afghanistan is heavy, but the U.S. military has ample forces to respond to any other contingency that may arise, the general in charge of planning for the Joint Chiefs of Staff said here today.

Tuesday, September 25, 2007

Coalition Troops Kill Five, Detain 29 in Iraq Raids

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 25, 2007 - Coalition forces killed five terrorists and detained 29 suspects during a series of anti-insurgent operations conducted across Iraq today, officials reported.

Monday, September 24, 2007

Violent Incidents Down; Al Qaeda 'Off Balance' in Iraq, Spokesman Says

By Melinda L. Larson | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 23, 2007 - Attacks and violent incidents in Iraq are down, but Iraqi and coalition forces still have a lot of work ahead, a top coalition spokesman in Iraq said today.

19 Terrorists Killed, 80 Detained During Four Days of Operations in Iraq

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 23, 2007 - Coalition and Iraqi forces killed 19 terrorists and detained some 80 others during operations in Iraq since Sept. 20.

Thursday, September 20, 2007

Troops Thwart Insurgent Ambush, Nab Suspect in Afghanistan

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 19, 2007 - Afghan and coalition forces killed more than a dozen enemy fighters when they foiled an insurgent ambush, and combined forces captured one suspect this morning in Afghanistan, military officials said.

Iraqi, Coalition Forces Net Suspects, Kill Insurgents, Seize Weapons

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 19, 2007 - Iraqi and coalition forces nabbed dozens of suspects, killed five others and confiscated or destroyed weapons caches across Iraq over the past three days, military officials said.

Iraqi Citizens Crucial in Locating Terror Mastermind, Securing Country

By David Mays | Special to American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 19, 2007 - Coalition forces have killed an al Qaeda leader who orchestrated a massive bombing in an impoverished Baghdad neighborhood, a U.S. military spokesman announced today.

Wednesday, September 19, 2007

Iraqi Security Forces Make Progress in Northern Iraq

By Fred W. Baker III | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 18, 2007 - Iraqi security forces have made much progress toward readiness in the past year within Multinational Division North's area of responsibility, a top official in the region said today.

Coalition Forces Kill, Detain al Qaeda Terrorists in Iraq

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 18, 2007 - Coalition forces killed three terrorists and detained 16 suspected terrorists during multiple operations today targeting key al Qaeda operatives and mid-level leaders in Iraq's Tigris River Valley.

Militants Killed, Captured in Afghanistan Operations

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 18, 2007 - Several suspected militants were killed and four others were detained today during an operation by Afghan and coalition forces in Afghanistan's Ghazni province.

Monday, September 17, 2007

Coalition Forces Kill Three Insurgents, Capture Key Leader, 11 Other Suspects

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 17, 2007 - Three insurgents were killed and 16 others, including a key "special groups" leader, were captured in separate operations in Iraq today.

Troop Surge Turns Momentum Against Terrorists, Official Says

By John Valceanu | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 16, 2007 - Coalition and Iraqi forces must maintain the momentum generated by the troop surge in Iraq to defeat terrorists and insurgents, a senior military official in Baghdad said today.

Sunday, September 16, 2007

Forces Capture Suspected Sattar Assassination Planner

By John Valceanu | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 16, 2007 - Coalition forces yesterday captured a man suspected of being behind the Sept. 13 assassination of Sheik Abdul-Sattar Abu Risha, an influential Sunni leader who helped fight Al Qaeda in Iraq's Anbar Forces, officials in Baghdad announced during a briefing today.

Forces Kill Insurgents, Capture Suspects in Afghanistan

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 16, 2007 - Afghan forces, working in concert with coalition troops, killed more than a dozen insurgents, captured 11 suspects and seized a weapons cache in Afghanistan over the past two days, military officials said.

Coalition Forces Capture Key Extremist Leaders in Iraq, Kill Three Insurgents

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 16, 2007 - Iraqi and coalition forces detained six suspects, including several key extremist militant leaders, killed three insurgents and seized a weapons cache in Iraq over the past three days, military officials said.

Saturday, September 15, 2007

Coalition Forces Kill Eight Terrorists, Detain 21 Others

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 14, 2007 - Coalition forces killed eight terrorists and detained 21 suspected terrorists in operations in central and northern Iraq today.

Afghan Commandos Nab Taliban Leader in First Raid

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 14, 2007 - A new battalion of Afghan National Army commandos today completed it first operation, capturing a well-known Taliban facilitator and two suspected Taliban extremists.

Security, Economy, Services Improving for Iraqi Citizens

By David Mays | Special to American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 14, 2007 - Quality of life in Iraq is getting better thanks to increased security, a chief Iraqi government spokesman said yesterday from Baghdad.

Top Military Advisers Stand Behind Petraeus Recommendations

By Carol L. Bowers | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 14, 2007 - The nation's top military advisers were "unanimous" in backing the recommendations made to the president by Army Gen. David H. Petraeus on the way forward in Iraq, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said here today.

Friday, September 14, 2007

Bush Agrees to Transition to Next Phase in Iraq

By Donna Miles | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 13, 2007 - In addition to a drawdown of surge forces in Iraq, President Bush said tonight that he also had accepted Army Gen. David H. Petraeus' recommendation to begin transitioning to the next phase of the U.S. strategy in Iraq in December.

Thursday, September 13, 2007

Al-Qaida in Iraq takes heavy losses

September 13
BAGHDAD, Sept. 13 (UPI)- Al-Qaida militants in Iraq have taken heavy losses in two joint U.S.-Iraqi raids north of Baghdad, the U.S. military reported Thursday.

Iranian-Made Mortar Likely Used in Recent Attack, General Says

By John J. Kruzel | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 13, 2007 - A mortar that killed a coalition servicemember and injured 12 when it detonated earlier this week at a coalition operating base likely was manufactured in Iran, a spokesman for Multinational Force Iraq said yesterday.

Assassination Bolsters Resolve Against al Qaeda, Iraqi Spokesman Says

By David Mays | Special to American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 13, 2007 - Today's assassination of an influential Sunni leader whose followers have been helping fight al Qaeda in Iraq will only bolster the war on insurgents, a chief spokesman of the Iraqi government said today.

Five Terrorists Killed in Coalition Operations in Iraq

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 13, 2007 - Coalition forces killed five terrorists during operations today targeting al Qaeda leaders and operatives in central and northern parts of the Iraq.

Pakistan Kills 30 Militants in Clash

Agence France-Presse | September 13, 2007
MIRANSHAH, Pakistan - Up to 30 Islamic militants were killed and nine Pakistani troops wounded after insurgents attacked a checkpost in a troubled tribal region bordering Afghanistan, the army said Thursday.

45 Killed in Afghan Clash

Associated Press | September 13, 2007
Airstrikes and Afghan army gunfire killed more than 45 suspected Taliban fighters in a clash in a southern province just as the holy month of Ramadan began, the U.S.-led coalition said.

Wednesday, September 12, 2007

Coalition Forces Nab 15 Terrorists in Iraq Operations

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 12, 2007 - Coalition forces detained 15 suspected terrorists during operations today targeting al Qaeda leaders and their networks in the northern part of Iraq.

Iran Denies Request on Missing American

By NASSER KARIMI
TEHRAN, Iran (AP)- Iran said Sunday had refused a request by the Swiss Embassy to travel to the site where an American is believed to have disappeared earlier this year.

Robert Levinson was last seen March 8 on Kish Island, a resort off the southern coast of Iran, and Tehran has repeatedly said it has no information on his whereabouts.

The 'proxy war': UK troops are sent to Iranian border

Exclusive by Kim Sengupta in Baghdad | 12 September 2007
British forces have been sent from Basra to the volatile border with Iran amid warnings from the senior US commander in Iraq that Tehran is fomenting a "proxy war".

In signs of a fast-developing confrontation, the Iranians have threatened military action in response to attacks launched from Iraqi territory while the Pentagon has announced the building of a US base and fortified checkpoints at the frontier.
...
Maj-Gen Rick Lynch, commander of the US Army's 3rd Infantry Division, said 48 Iranian-supplied roadside bombs had been used against his forces killing nine soldiers. "We've got a major problem with Iranian munitions streaming into Iraq. This Iranian interference is troubling and we have to stop it," he told The Wall Street Journal this week.

Tuesday, September 11, 2007

Coalition Targets al Qaeda Networks Aiding Foreign Terrorists

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 11, 2007 - Coalition forces conducted two operations today targeting facets of the al Qaeda network that conduct attacks and facilitate the movement of foreign terrorists in northwestern Iraq.

Petraeus Cites Encouraging Examples of Iraqi Political Reconciliation

By John J. Kruzel | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 11, 2007 - There is encouraging evidence of political reconciliation in Iraq despite legislative stalls on key issues, including oil revenue sharing, the top U.S. military commander there said here today.

Afghan Forces Thwart Attempted Taliban Ambush

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 11, 2007 - An element of 2nd Brigade, 205th Afghan National Army Corps, advised by coalition forces, surprised a large group of Taliban fighters planning an ambush near Wetob village in Zabul province, Afghanistan, today.

Petraeus, Crocker Wrap Up Testimony Citing Progress, Challenges in Iraq

By Donna Miles | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 11, 2007 - The top U.S. military commander and diplomat in Iraq entered their third round of congressional testimony this afternoon reiterating their belief that although the mission in Iraq is challenging, it's making progress the United States can't afford to let slip.

Thursday, September 6, 2007

Coalition Crushes Taliban Assault

Associated Press | September 06, 2007
KABUL, Afghanistan - Afghan and U.S.-led coalition troops killed more than 40 suspected Taliban militants in southern Afghanistan, the latest in a wave of strikes that have claimed the lives of hundreds of insurgents, the coalition said Thursday.

Iraqi Police: 14 Shiite Militiamen Killed in Battle With Coalition Forces

September 06, 2007 | Associated Press
BAGHDAD - American and Iraqi Special Forces clashed with suspected Shiite militiamen Thursday in western Baghdad, the U.S. military said, in a gunfight that saw at least 14 people killed, according to residents and police.

Acting on intelligence information, the U.S. and Iraqi troops launched the early-morning raid in the capital's Washash area against the suspected terrorist cell, which was believed to be responsible for attacks on police and sectarian killings, the U.S. command said in a statement.

As the troops entered the area they came under fire from more than a dozen militiamen firing from the rooftops.

Wednesday, September 5, 2007

Iraqi Army Withdraws From Fallujah

Marine Corps News | By Pfc. Brian Jones | September 05, 2007
FALLUJAH - The last battalion of Iraqi soldiers with 2nd Brigade, 1st Iraqi Army Division, withdrew from the Anbar Province city of Fallujah, Sept. 1, leaving the city's security and stability in the hands of the local police and government.

Brig. Gen. Ali al-Hashemi, the brigade's commander, said the time had come when Iraqi Police alone could handle law enforcement in the city.

Coalition Kills al Qaeda Leader, Detains 18 Suspected Terrorists in Iraq

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 5, 2007 - Coalition forces killed an al Qaeda leader and detained 18 suspected terrorists during operations today to disrupt the terrorist network and its bombing operations in central and northern Iraq.

Commander Sees Progress in Afghanistan’s Khowst Province

By John J. Kruzel | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 5, 2007 - In Afghanistan's "strategic province" of Khowst, enhanced cooperation between coalition and Afghan forces, increased funding from Congress, and improved governance are "mutually reinforcing each other," the commander of the Khowst Provincial Reconstruction Team said today.

Patriot Day, 2007

A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America
September 11, 2001, was a defining moment in American history. On that terrible day, our Nation saw the face of evil as 19 men barbarously attacked us and wantonly murdered people of many races, nationalities, and creeds. On Patriot Day, we remember the innocent victims, and we pay tribute to the valiant firefighters, police officers, emergency personnel, and ordinary citizens who risked their lives so others might live.

After the attacks on 9/11, America resolved that we would go on the offense against our enemies, and we would not distinguish between the terrorists and those who harbor and support them. All Americans honor the selfless men and women of our Armed Forces, the dedicated members of our public safety, law enforcement, and intelligence communities, and the thousands of others who work hard each day to protect our country, secure our liberty, and prevent future attacks.

Taliban Kidnapper of Koreans Killed

UPI | September 05, 2007
KABUL, Afghanistan - U.S.-led coalition forces in Afghanistan are believed to have killed the man who led the kidnapping of 23 South Korean church workers.

Tuesday, September 4, 2007

Coalition Troops Kill Three Terrorists, Detain 17

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 4, 2007 - Coalition forces killed three terrorists and detained 17 during operations around Iraq today.

Afghan, Coalition Forces Kill 25 Insurgents, Discover Weapons Cache

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 3, 2007 - Afghan national security forces, advised by coalition soldiers, conducted a cordon and search operation of an insurgent headquarters southwest of Kandahar City yesterday leading to the deaths of 25 insurgents and the discovery of a weapons cache.

Military Surge Working, Bush Tells Troops in Iraq

By Jim Garamone | American Forces Press Service
AL ASAD AIR BASE, Iraq, Sept. 3, 2007 - The military surge into Iraq is working, President Bush told troops today during a surprise visit here.

Friday, August 31, 2007

Coalition Forces Kill Five Terrorists, Detain 37

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 31, 2007 - Five terrorists were killed and 37 suspected terrorists were detained today as coalition forces continued to put pressure on al Qaeda's operations in Iraq.

Failed Attack Leaves 12 Taliban Dead in Afghanistan

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 31, 2007 - Afghan national security forces, advised by coalition forces, defeated an insurgent attack yesterday near Regay Village on the east side of the Musa Qalah Wadi in Afghanistan's Helmand province.

Thursday, August 30, 2007

Coalition Kills More Than 100 Insurgents in Afghanistan Engagement

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 29, 2007 - Afghan national security forces advised by coalition forces killed more than 100 insurgent fighters in a battle that started this morning and still continues in the northern part of Afghanistan's Kandahar province, military officials reported.

Coalition Operations in Iraq Disrupt al Qaeda

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 30, 2007 - Coalition forces disrupted al Qaeda operations in Iraq with a series of raids today, killing a terrorist leader and detaining more than 25 other individuals suspected of being al Qaeda members and associates.

Tuesday, August 28, 2007

Afghan, Coalition Troops Kill, Capture Insurgents, Find Weapons

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 28, 2007 - Afghan and coalition forces killed 21 insurgents, nabbed 12 others, discovered a weapons cache and thwarted two ambushes in Afghanistan over the past two days, military officials said.

Iraq Orders Shiite Pilgrims to Leave Holy City of Karbala

August 28, 2007 | Associated Press
BAGHDAD - More than 1 million pilgrims were ordered to leave the Shiite holy city of Karbala on Tuesday and police imposed a curfew after two days of violence - including raging gunbattles between rival militias - claimed at least 35 lives during a religious festival.

Coalition Troops Kill, Detain Dozens, Seize Weapons in Iraq

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 28, 2007 - Coalition and Iraqi forces killed and captured dozens of insurgents and seized scores of weapons during operations in Iraq over the past three days, military officials said.

Monday, August 27, 2007

Troops Kill, Capture Terrorists, Seize Weapons in 'Lightning Hammer'

By John J. Kruzel | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 27, 2007 - Coalition and Iraqi forces killed 26 al Qaeda members, captured 37 suspected terrorist and seized 10 weapons caches during Operation Lightning Hammer, one in a series of coordinated "quick-strike" offensives that launched this month, a top general in Iraq said today.

Iraq Operations Net 36 Terrorists, Kill Nine

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 27, 2007 - Coalition troops detained 36 terrorists and killed nine others today during a series of raids in Baghdad and other areas in central and northern Iraq, officials reported.

Afghan, Coalition Forces Destroy Taliban Heroin Lab

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 27, 2007 - Afghan and coalition forces teamed up to defeat a group of Taliban insurgents protecting a heroin laboratory in Helmand province yesterday, officials reported.

Attacks Down, Economic Development Up in Iraq

By Melinda L. Larson | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 26, 2007 - Recent strides in Iraq's economic development, including the reopening of a flour mill last week, are occurring as Iraqi and coalition forces disrupt al Qaeda and other terrorist elements, a senior military spokesman in Iraq said today.

Tribal Leaders in Diyala Province Band Together

By Melinda L. Larson | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 26, 2007 - Tribal leaders in Iraq's Diyala province are banding together to secure peace and protect their people, the commander of coalition forces in the province told reporters yesterday.

"They (tribal leaders) signed a peace agreement and swore to protect the land and their people from al Qaeda and to bridge the gap between tribes and to have a provincial-wide reconciliation movement," Army Col. David W. Sutherland said as he sat alongside the Iraqi security forces commander in Diyala, Maj. Gen. Abdul Kareem, during a joint news conference in Baqubah, Iraq.

Seven Iraqis Escape Makeshift Prison, 11 Terrorists Detained

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 26, 2007 - Seven Iraqi citizens found their way to a coalition patrol base near Khan Ban Sa'ad, Iraq, yesterday after escaping a makeshift prison, military officials reported.

The alleged captors were linked to an earlier operation yesterday when attack helicopters patrolling the area observed three individuals moving in a tactical formation through a ditch. Coalition forces positively identified the individuals as hostile enemy forces and fired on their position, killing all three.

Friday, August 24, 2007

Report Cites Measured Progress in Iraq

By Fred W. Baker III | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 24, 2007 - The latest National Intelligence Estimate update released yesterday reports a drop in violent attacks and measured progress in Iraq and suggests that, with continued robust counterinsurgency operations and mentoring by coalition forces, Iraqi security forces will continue to improve.

Al Qaeda Disrupted During Operations in Iraq’s Tigris River Valley

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 24, 2007 - Coalition forces killed seven terrorists and detained 12 suspected terrorists today during operations in central and northern Iraq.

Commander Says Iraqi Citizens Turning Against Insurgents

By Carmen L. Gleason | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 24, 2007 - Iraqis who once aligned themselves with militants are now taking up arms against al Qaeda, a top commander in the Iraqi capital said during a conference call today.

Thursday, August 23, 2007

Violence Down in Iraq, Iraqi Forces Becoming More Capable

By Sgt. Sara Wood, USA | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 23, 2007 - Due to the sustained presence of coalition forces in former insurgent safe havens and increased capability of Iraqi security forces, levels of violence in Iraq are the lowest they've been since June 2006, an operational leader on the Joint Staff said today.

One Terrorist Killed, 10 Detained During Iraq Operations

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 23, 2007 - Coalition forces killed one terrorist and detained 10 suspected terrorists today during operations around Iraq targeting al Qaeda weapons and leadership networks.

President Bush Attends V.F.W. National Convention

On Wednesday, President Bush said, "The greatest weapon in the arsenal of democracy is the desire for liberty written into the human heart by our Creator. So long as we remain true to our ideals, we will defeat the extremists in Iraq and Afghanistan. We will help those countries' peoples stand up functioning democracies in the heart of the broader Middle East. And when that hard work is done and the critics of today recede from memory, the cause of freedom will be stronger, a vital region will be brighter, and the American people will be safer."

Commander Sees More Stability, Local Governmental Growth in Iraq

By Carmen L. Gleason | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 22, 2007 - As 3rd Infantry Division soldiers run terrorists from their safe havens south and east of Baghdad during Operation Marne Husky, they also are helping local Iraqi citizens stand up for themselves, a U.S. commander said today.

Iraqis Destroy Terrorist Safe House

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 22, 2007 - Iraqi army scouts accompanied by U.S. special operations forces destroyed a suspected weapons cache and insurgent safe house yesterday in a helicopter assault. Other operations across Iraq have led to the capture of enemy fighters and weapons caches.

Tuesday, August 21, 2007

Coalition Troops in Iraq Kill Five Insurgents, Net 11

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 21, 2007 - Coalition troops today killed five al Qaeda-affiliated terrorists and captured 11 suspects during three operations in central and northern Iraq, officials said.

Al-Qaeda faces rebellion from the ranks

July 23, 2007 | Deborah Haynes in Doura
Fed up with being part of a group that cuts off a person's face with piano wire to teach others a lesson, dozens of low-level members of al-Qaeda in Iraq are daring to become informants for the US military in a hostile Baghdad neighbourhood.

Sunday, August 19, 2007

Bush Hails Local-Level Political Progress in Iraq

By Fred W. Baker III | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 18, 2007 - Iraqi government development at the community level is progressing even as American and Iraqi forces launch a new offensive targeting terrorists fleeing the major cities for refuge, President Bush said today in his weekly radio address.

Afghan Troops Repel Third Ambush in Three Days

American Forces Press Service
KABUL, Afghanistan, Aug. 19, 2007 - Afghan National Auxiliary Police, advised by coalition forces, countered an attack Aug. 17 in Afghanistan's Helmand province, killing nearly a dozen insurgents.

Coalition Forces in Iraq Kill Three Terrorists, Detain 21

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 19, 2007 - Coalition forces killed three terrorists and detained 21 suspects during operations in Iraq today.

Friday, August 17, 2007

Coalition Forces Capture High-Priority Weapons Smuggler, 62 Others

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 16, 2007 - Coalition forces captured a highly sought "special groups" weapons facilitator before dawn today northeast of Baghdad. In other operations this week, coalition forces captured 54 suspected terrorists and killed 19 terrorists.

Afghan, Coalition Forces Repel Two Ambush Attacks

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 16, 2007 - Afghan National Army and police forces supported by coalition forces defeated two separate Taliban ambushes yesterday and today in Afghanistan's Helmand province, military officials reported.

General Says Iraq Operations Have Terrorists on Run

By Carmen L. Gleason | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 16, 2007 - Denying the enemy sanctuary is the major capability brought to bear by surge forces in Iraq, a commander in the region said today.

"We do believe the enemy is on the run," said Army Maj. Gen. Rick Lynch, Multinational Division Central and 3rd Infantry Division commander, as he spoke with "bloggers" and online journalists. "We've had a good effect; we've killed or captured more than 500 of the enemy in those sanctuaries."

Afghan, Coalition Forces Nab 11 Suspected Insurgents

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 17, 2007 - Afghan troops advised by coalition forces detained 11 suspected insurgents during operations today in Ghazni and Kandahar, Afghanistan.

Coalition Forces Kill 13 Terrorists While Targeting Cell Leader

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 17, 2007 - Coalition forces killed 13 terrorists and detained 12 suspected terrorists east of Tarmiyah, Iraq, during an operation today targeting an al Qaeda cell leader who provides guidance to senior terrorist leaders in Iraq.

Coalition Forces Exert Pressure on al Qaeda, Other Extremists in Iraq

By Maj. Steven Lamb, USA | Special to American Forces Press Service
BAGHDAD, Aug. 17, 2007 - Multinational Division Baghdad troops are doing their part to contribute to Multinational Corps Iraq's Operation Phantom Strike by continuing to apply pressure on al Qaeda and Shiia extremists throughout the Iraqi capital.

General: Quick Strikes Planned in Iraq

August 17 | By PAULINE JELINEK
WASHINGTON (AP) - The No. 2 American commander in Iraq said Friday that coalition forces are planning "quick strike raids" aimed at smashing al-Qaida and other insurgents in far-flung parts of the country before the U.S. brings some of its buildup troops home.

Wednesday, August 15, 2007

Petraeus Says He Will Propose Troop Cuts

August 15 | By STEVEN R. HURST
BAGHDAD (AP) - The top American commander in Iraq said Wednesday he was preparing recommendations on troop cuts before he returns to Washington next month for a report to Congress, and believes the U.S. footprint in Iraq will have to be "a good bit smaller" by next summer.

But he cautioned against a quick or significant U.S. withdrawal that could surrender "the gains we have fought so hard to achieve."

Defense Department Task Force Works to Reinvigorate Iraq's Economy

By Tim Kilbride | American Forces Press Service
BAGHDAD, Aug. 14, 2007 - Fagah Al Dhahab needs money -- about $4 million, to hear him tell it.

Dhahab is the director general of the Hillah textiles company. His cluster of factories in the capital of Iraq's Babil province represents one piece of a network of state-run industries that dotted Iraq under Saddam Hussein, providing jobs and consumer goods, but also impeding competitive growth as lynchpins of Iraq's controlled economy.

Dhahab's operations are ongoing but suffering, victims of inadequate funding, supply shortages, understaffing and a paucity of electricity. In July, the factory's output was 450,000 meters of fabric. Before that, Dhahab said, he was forced to halt production for prolonged stretches.

Now, a Defense Department task force working to reinvigorate Iraq's economic landscape sees potential in the deteriorated plant. Paul A. Brinkley, deputy undersecretary of defense for business transformation, recently visited the site to award funding for improvements.

Tuesday, August 14, 2007

Raid Kills Four, Nets Eight in Baghdad’s Sadr City

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 14, 2007 - Coalition forces killed four terrorists and detained a Jaysh al-Mahdi militia leader and several of his operatives during a raid in the Sadr City section of Baghdad early this morning.

Monday, August 13, 2007

Coalition Troops Launch Operation Phantom Strike in Iraq

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 13, 2007 - Coalition soldiers today launched a major joint offensive, Operation Phantom Strike, in a powerful crackdown to disrupt al Qaeda and Iranian-supported extremist operations in Iraq.

U.S. Military Starts New Iraq Offensive

August 13, 2007
BAGHDAD (AP) - The U.S. military launched a new offensive on Monday aimed at cracking down on Sunni and Shiite extremists, according to a statement.

The statement singled out Sunni insurgents linked to al-Qaida in Iraq and said the Shiite extremists were being backed by Iran. The military has stepped up its rhetoric recently against Tehran, which is accused of supplying militias with arms and training to attack U.S. forces. Iran denies the allegations.

Coalition Forces Capture, Kill Insurgents in Iraq

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 13, 2007 - Iraqi and coalition forces detained 66 insurgents, killed five others and discovered weapons in Iraq over the past three days, military officials said.

Troops Kill, Capture Insurgents, Discover Weapons in Afghanistan

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 13, 2007 - Afghan forces working in concert with coalition forces netted three suspects and a weapons cache and killed several insurgents in Afghanistan over the past three days.

Friday, August 10, 2007

Afghan, Coalition Forces Continue Anti-Taliban Operations

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 10, 2007 - Coalition forces detained six men during an operation in Afghanistan's Paktia province today, military officials reported.

General Expresses Optimism About Iraqi Police Progress

By Donna Miles | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 10, 2007 - The deputy commander of the Civilian Police Assistance Training Team operating in Iraq said today that he's feeling "very, very optimistic" about progress over the past several months.

Trends Encouraging in Baghdad Hotspots, Commander Says

By Jim Garamone | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 10, 2007 - The security situation in eastern Baghdad is improving, the coalition commander for that region said today.

Attacks against coalition forces and Iraqi civilians are down, Army Col. John Castles, commander of 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, said. "From where I'm sitting, things are starting to look pretty good," he told Pentagon reporters via teleconference from Camp Taji, Iraq. "Overall throughout the area of operations, the security situation has been improving."

Wednesday, August 8, 2007

Coalition Successes Mount Against al Qaeda in Iraq

By John J. Kruzel | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 8, 2007 - Coalition and Iraqi security forces captured or killed 18 senior al Qaeda members in July, a Multinational Force Iraq spokesman said today.

Raid in Iraq Kills 32 Suspected Militants

August 8 | By SINAN SALAHEDDIN
BAGHDAD (AP)- A U.S.-led raid and airstrike targeting networks allegedly smuggling weapons and fighters from Iran killed 32 suspected militants Wednesday in Baghdad's Shiite stronghold of Sadr City, the military said.

Tuesday, August 7, 2007

Coalition Forces Target al Qaeda Leaders Around Baghdad

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 7, 2007 - Coalition forces killed eight terrorists and detained 14 suspected terrorists during coordinated operations targeting a senior al Qaeda leader west of Tarmiyah over the past two days.

Over 20 Taliban Militants Killed in Attempt to Overrun Afghan Coalition Base

August 07, 2007 | Associated Press
KABUL, Afghanistan - A group of 75 Taliban militants tried to overrun a U.S.-led coalition base in southern Afghanistan on Tuesday, a rare frontal attack that left more than 20 militants dead, the coalition said.

Tribal Leaders Join Forces to Fight Terrorists in Diyala Province

By Sgt. Serena Hayden, USA | Special to American Forces Press Service
TIKRIT, Iraq, Aug. 6, 2007 - Tribal leaders in Diyala province, Iraq, have joined forces and are working together to fight terrorists in their homeland.

Monday, August 6, 2007

Citizens Oust Terrorists from Mosque, Help Uncover Weapons Cache

American Forces Press Service
BAGHDAD, Aug. 6, 2007 - Fed-up with violent and indiscriminate terror tactics, a group of more than 80 residents of the Adhamiyah district, on the east side of the Iraqi capital, banded together yesterday to oust suspected terrorists from a local mosque.

Air Strike Kills Mastermind Behind Iraqi Golden Mosque Bombings

By Samantha L. Quigley | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 5, 2007 - The senior al Qaeda terrorist believed to be the mastermind behind both bombings of the Golden Mosque in Samarra, Iraq, was killed during a coalition air strike, a Multinational Force Iraq spokesperson told journalists in Baghdad today.

Recent Ops in Iraq Kill Extremists, Nab Suspects, Weapons

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 5, 2007 - Coalition forces killed four insurgents and detained 46 in operations across Iraq since Aug. 3, officials in Baghdad reported.

Friday, August 3, 2007

Baghdad Zoo Trip Tells CENTCOM Enlisted Leader Volumes

Why can't Katie Couric's news crews find this zoo and shoot some video for their evening report?

By Jim Garamone | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 3, 2007 - A trip to the Baghdad Zoo was an eye-opener for the senior enlisted leader of U.S. Central Command.

The opportunity came up by chance as Marine Sgt. Maj. Jeffrey A. Morin was visiting a unit based near the zoo in central Baghdad. "The unit wanted me to see the zoo," he said. "To be honest, I thought it was going to be a waste of time. I'm thinking, 'Why do I want to go to the zoo to look at some animals?'

"But as soon as I crested the gates and saw what was going on, I knew why they wanted me to go there," he continued. "And it was not to look at animals."

The unit wanted Morin to see the interactions of the people at the zoo and what normal life in Baghdad really looks like. "(There were) mothers, fathers, kids, grandparents, extended families all sitting on blankets, playing sports, just like Central Park in New York or like on the Mall here in Washington," he said. "What a huge sign of hope. You had young couples walking hand in hand."

Coalition Raids Detain 17 Suspected Terrorists in Iraq

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 3, 2007 - Coalition forces in Iraq detained 17 suspected terrorists during raids targeting al Qaeda operations in the Tigris River Valley today, military officials reported.

Thursday, August 2, 2007

Coalition Forces Capture Two Alleged Senior al Qaeda Leaders

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 2, 2007 - Coalition forces captured two alleged al Qaeda emirs, killed four terrorists and detained 21 suspected terrorists during Iraq operations over the past two days.

Baqubah Transitions to ‘Hold’ Status, Commander Says

By Jim Garamone | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 2, 2007 - Operations in Baqubah, Iraq, are transitioning to the "hold" phase of the "secure, hold, build" strategy, the commander of coalition forces in northern Iraq said today.

Coalition Continues to Target al Qaeda Leaders in Iraq

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 1, 2007 - Coalition forces detained six alleged terrorists this morning south of Tikrit while targeting an al Qaeda key leader responsible for coordinating attacks on coalition and Iraqi forces.

Iraq Makes Security, Economic, Political Gains, Officials Say

By Gerry J. Gilmore | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 1, 2007 - Ongoing, tangible progress is being made in Iraq across security, economic and political fronts, U.S. officials said in Baghdad today.

Tuesday, July 31, 2007

Coalition Detains 35 Suspects in Central, Northern Iraq

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, July 31, 2007 - Coalition forces detained 35 suspected terrorists during operations targeting al Qaeda in central and northern Iraq over the past two days.

Mullen Cites Limited Progress in Iraq

July 31 | By KIMBERLY HEFLING
WASHINGTON (AP) - President Bush's choice to head the military Joint Chiefs of Staff said Tuesday an increase of troops in Iraq is giving commanders the forces needed to improve security there.

"Security is better, not great, but better," said Navy Adm. Michael Mullen, speaking before the Senate Armed Services committee at his nomination hearing.

The Tipping Point

By Carol Devine-Molin | July 31, 2007
Wait a minute! Am I now to believe that we can win the war in Iraq after Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid has repeatedly advised Americans that the war is lost? In fact, "pull out now, the war is lost" has been the ongoing mantra of the Democrat Party and the entire gaggle of Left-wingers that are antiwar, and, although they are loath to admit it, anti-troop.

Coalition Raids Kill Five Terrorists in Iraq

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, July 30, 2007 - Coalition forces killed five terrorists and detained 38 suspected terrorists today during operations targeting al Qaeda in Iraq's Salah Ad Din and Anbar provinces, military officials reported.

Petraeus Says U.S. Will Retain Presence in Iraq for Foreseeable Future

By Jim Garamone | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, July 31, 2007 - The United States will retain some presence in Iraq for the foreseeable future, the commander of Multinational Force Iraq said today.

Monday, July 30, 2007

Bush Wants Terrorism Law Updated

By DEB RIECHMANN | Associated Press | July 30, 2007
WASHINGTON (AP) - President Bush wants Congress to modernize a law that governs how intelligence agencies monitor the communications of suspected terrorists.

"This law is badly out of date," Bush said Saturday in his weekly radio address.

Forces Kill 8 Terrorists, Detain 22 Suspects Today During Operations

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, July 29, 2007 - Coalition forces killed eight terrorists and detained 22 suspected terrorists during operations today targeting al Qaeda members in central Iraq and the Tigris River valley, officials reported.

Afghan, Coalition Troops Conduct Successful Missions Against Taliban

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, July 29, 2007 - Afghan National Security Forces, supported by coalition partners, successfully conducted an operation against Taliban fighters in Helmand province this week, military officials reported.

General Recognizes Pilots for Daring Rescue Mission

By Spc. Nathan Hoskins, USA | Special to American Forces Press Service
BAGHDAD, July 29, 2007 - The top U.S. general in Iraq presented awards to four Apache pilots for their part in the July 2 rescue of two other pilots downed by enemy fire during a July 27 ceremony in the Victory Base Complex here.

Surge Putting Pressure on Terrorists; Air Power Surges with Ground Troops

By Fred W. Baker III | American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, July 30, 2007 - Operations in Iraq are putting pressure on insurgents, keeping them off balance and eliminating their safe havens, a senior spokesman there said today.