Release A050628b

Operation SAIF begins in Hit-Haditha area

Multi-National Force-Iraq

AR RAMADI, Iraq – Iraqi Security Forces and approximately 1,000 Marines, Sailors and Soldiers from Regimental Combat Team-2, comprised of elements of 2nd Marine Regiment and 2nd Brigade Combat Team of the 2nd Marine Division began conducting security operations in the Al Anbar province.

Operation Saif (Sword) began early this morning to root out terrorists and foreign fighters living along the Euphrates River between the cities of Haditha and Hit.

Regimental Combat Team-2 and ISF troops recently conducted Operation Romhe (Spear) in Karabilah, killing dozens of terrorists during the five-day operation. During those five days, ISF and Marines discovered four hostages bound and gagged in an insurgent torture house. Operation Saif (Sword) builds upon the successes of Operations Romhe (Spear), Matador, New Market and River Sweep.

An ISF infantry company, approximately 100 soldiers, are fully integrated with Marine and Army units in Operation Saif.

More information on the operation will be released as it becomes available.

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This information is provided by the 2 nd Marine Division, Camp Blue Diamond, Iraq. For more information on this release, contact Marine Capt. Jeffrey S. Pool at PoolJS@gcemnf-wiraq.usmc.mil