Only four attacks were reported today. In them, one Iraqi was killed and another was wounded. In polictical news, a U.S. ambassador is apologizing to Shi’ite Iraqis for not supporting their “Arab Spring” 20 years ago. The Iraqi premier, however, continues to harass Sunnis under the guise of chasing Ba’athists.
Updated at 8:29 p.m. EDT, Aug. 18, 2010
The last brigade of U.S. combat troops crossed the border into Kuwait very early Thursday morning local time, two weeks ahead of the official drawdown deadline set by Washington. Although approximately 50,000 personnel will remain in Iraq and combat conditions will continue for many of those left behind, the withdrawal of the 4th Stryker Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division is a symbolic end to combat operations.
Separately, the new U.S. ambassador to Iraq, James Jeffrey, arrived in Baghdad on Wednesday where he met with leaders to formally accept his new post. Baghdad was also the scene of numerous if small attacks against government officials, but the most gruesome attack occurred in Diyala where gunmen left the following message on their victims: “This is the future for all those who cooperate with the U.S. military and Iraqi security forces.” Overall, at least 25 Iraqis were killed and 33 more were wounded.
At least six Iraqi were killed and 11 more were wounded in attacks across the country. A series of brazen jewelry heists troubled Fallujah, where robbers may have been seeking funds to continue miltant efforts.Also, the United Nations has asked Iraq to ratify a convention against torture.
