Tag: Iraq

Monday: 1 US Soldier, 14 Iraqis Killed; 13 Iraqis Wounded

Updated at 6:40 p.m. EDT, June 29, 2009 With the U.S. withdrawal deadline looming, Iraqi forces spent Monday assuring citizens of their ability to handle security and declared tomorrow “National Sovereignty Day.” At least 14 Iraqis were killed and 13 more were wounded in the latest attacks. One U.S. soldier was killed in combat yesterday in Baghdad.

Sunday: 5 Iraqis Killed, 21 Wounded

Updated at 6:30 p.m. EDT, June 28, 2009 Widespread sand storms blanketed much of central and northern Iraq, curtailing attacks, or at least the reports of violence. The storms also delayed the awarding of oil contracts. Iraq forces are using the break, however, to bolster their defenses ahead of the U.S. withdrawal from the cities. Iraq has cancelled leave for all policemen. Gen. Ray Odierno believes the Iraqis are ready for Tuesday’s handover. He also said that a recent surge in attacks would likely hurt extremists more than it does their victims. Still, at least five Iraqis were killed and 21 more were wounded across the country.

Saturday: 1 Iraqi Killed, 7 Wounded

Only one Iraqi was reported killed in unusually light violence. Seven more were wounded. No Coalition deaths were reported, but one recently returned soldier may have committed suicide in Virginia. Also, two British hostages recently handed over to British authorities may have been dead as long as 18 months.

Iran Crisis Ripples Outward

As the political crisis that erupted after Iran’s Jun. 12 elections enters its third week, it is becoming evident that this crisis will have repercussions in many parts of the Middle East — and far beyond. The crisis may have its biggest effects inside neighboring Iraq, where next Tuesday, Jun. 30, the U.S. occupation forces … Continue reading “Iran Crisis Ripples Outward”

Friday: 2 US Soldiers, 22 Iraqis Killed; 54 Iraqis Wounded

Updated at 6:26 p.m. EDT, June 26, 2009 A significant bombing in Baghdad reminded residents of more violent prayer days when marketplace attacks were common. Otherwise, the prayer day was fairly quiet. Overall, at least 22 Iraqis were killed and 54 more were wounded. Two U.S. soldiers were killed in separate incidents. Elite Iraqi troops, meanwhile, are preparing to take security voer from U.S. troops next week.

A Withdrawal in Name Only

On November 17, 2008, when Iraqi Foreign Minister Hoshyar Zebari and U.S. ambassador Ryan Crocker signed an agreement for the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq, citizens from both countries applauded. While many were disappointed about the lengthy timeline for the withdrawal of the troops, it appeared that a roadmap was set to end the … Continue reading “A Withdrawal in Name Only”

Wednesday: 82 Iraqis Killed, 206 Wounded

Updated at 10:37 p.m. EDT, June 24, 2009 Despite a major bombing in Baghdad, the White House reiterated that U.S. troops will leave Iraqi cities by the end of the month as planned. At least 82 Iraqis were killed and 206 more were wounded in the Baghdad attack and elsewhere. No Coalition deaths were reported. Meanwhile, an Iraqi girl who was blinded and disfigured in a 2006 Sadr City bombing has returned home to Iraq following reconstructive surgery in London.