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
September 9, 2004
Release Number: 04-09-21
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ISF AND MULTI-NATIONAL FORCES CONTINUE OPERATIONS IN TAL AFAR
MOSUL, Iraq - Operations in Tal Afar continue today, as Iraqi Security forces and Multi-National Forces work to remove the terrorist threat that has forced hundreds of people from their homes.
Multi-National Forces responded to dozens of attacks in recent weeks, with a coordinated and precise maneuver to secure the highway surrounding the city. This main road has been the site of numerous attacks on Multi-National Forces and Iraqi Security forces by rocket propelled grenades, mortars and roadside bombs.
While securing the highway, Multi-National Forces were attacked from within the city by anti-Iraqi forces using the Al Huda Mosque and other important city buildings as cover. The use of protected holy sites to conduct these kinds of attacks violates the Law of War.
Multi-National Forces responded to the attacks with precise and accurate fire.
While hundreds of the city's citizens have fled in the last several days, many of those remaining left today in the face of the terrorist attacks.
Contrary to media reports, Multi-National Forces and Iraqi Security forces are allowing ambulances to enter in and out of Tal Afar after being searched. This precaution is necessary because anti-Iraqi forces in Tal Afar have used ambulances to move about the city.
The Ninevah Provincial Government and the Iraqi Security forces are committed to returning the city of Tal Afar to its citizens. Multinational Forces and Iraqi Security Forces will continue security operations until the threat has been eliminated and the hard-working citizens of Tal Afar can return to their homes in safety and security.
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