NEWS RELEASE
HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES CENTRAL COMMAND
7115 South Boundary Boulevard
MacDill AFB, Fla. 33621-5101
Phone: (813) 827-5894; FAX: (813) 827-2211; DSN 651-5894
August 12, 2004
Release Number: 04-08-34
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
OPERATIONS IN NAJAF DESIGNED TO ISOLATE MILITIA
Statement by Brig Gen Erv Lessel, MNF-I Deputy Director for Operations
BAGHDAD, Iraq - Current clearing operations by Iraqi Security Forces and Multi-National Forces in Kufa and Najaf are focused on areas in both cities, but do not include the Imam Ali Mosque nor the Kufa Mosque. Today's operations are designed to restrict freedom of movement of Sadr forces in Kufa and Najaf and to further isolate them in these mosques which they use as a base of operations. Militia use of these shrines as protective shields could lead to damage of these sacred sites. The combined Iraqi and multi-national security forces are operating in strict compliance with guidance from the Prime Minister to safeguard and prevent possible harm to these holy shrines as well as protect the citizens and future of Iraq.
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