Agility, a Kuwait-based multi-billion-dollar logistics company spawned by the U.S. invasion of Iraq, is scheduled to be arraigned on Feb. 8 on criminal charges of overbilling U.S. taxpayers for food supply contracts in the Iraq war zone that were worth more than $8.5 billion. If the lawsuit is successful, the company could owe the U.S. …
Continue reading “Kuwaiti Pentagon Contractor Faces Fraud Charges”
The first major bomb attack against Shi’ite pilgrims took place in northern Baghdad today, leaving scores dead or wounded. Overall, at least 56 Iraqis were killed and 138 more were wounded across the country. Meanwhile, hundreds of thousands of pilgrims continue to make their way to Karbala for Arbaeen observances despite the attacks.
Attacks continued against Shi’ite pilgrims walking to Karbala for Arbaeen observances. Southern Baghdad seemed especially dangerous for the pilgrims who are often traveling on foot. Overall, at least six Iraqis were killed and 17 more were wounded across the country.
An increase in violence targeting Shi’ite pilgrims added to today’s casualty figures. At least five Iraqis were killed and 41 more were wounded in sectarian and other assaults. Hundreds of thousands of Shi’ites are now traveling to Karbala for Arbaeen observances. Many are on foot, making them more vulnerable; however, the worst attack that occurred was against security personnel in Samarra. Meanwhile, a second prominent Iraqi leader is now threatening to declare a boycott of upcoming elections and perhaps throw the entire country into disarray. Also, the Islamic State in Iraq claimed responsibility for a blast at a crime lab on Tuesday.
Jeff Huber says ‘surges’ aren’t meant to end any wars
At least seven Iraqis were killed, including a suspected al-Qaeda operative, and 21 more were wounded in new violence. Meanwhile, Interior Minister Jawad al-Bolani said the controversial ADE-651 bomb detector would be removed from service if tests prove it to be useless. Also, Britain awaits the testimony of former-Prime Minster Tony Blair tomorrow at the Iraq Inquiry.
As the Arbaeen holiday approaches, an increase in pilgrims visiting holy sites could put them at greater risk. The first confirmed attack against Shi’ite pilgrims, who were visiting from Iran, occurred today in the capital. At least four Iraqis were killed and eight more were wounded. Also, one Iranian woman was killed and five more were wounded. A U.S. soldier was also wounded in an attack.
A significant bomb attack rocked Baghdad for the second day in a row. At least 23 Iraqis were killed and 85 more were wounded there and elsewhere. Stunning testimony continues to seep out of the Iraq Inquiry as well. Also, corruption at Iraqi jails has reached dangerous levels.
Jeff Huber on the Pentagon’s public affairs zombies
Updated at 8:34 p.m. EST, Jan. 25, 2010
Chemical Ali was executed for genocide and crimes against humanity today. In Baghdad, three suicide bombs that exploded shortly before news became public could have been in retaliation for the execution. Not including Chemical Ali, at least 50 Iraqis were killed there and elsewhere. Another 104 Iraqis were wounded. Meanwhile, a controversial bomb detector will be kept in service, and a number of Iraqi candidates accused of ties to the Ba’ath Party will be allowed to run in March elections.