Massive demonstrations decrying the lack of an elected government months after national elections were held in the capital and southern Iraq today. The demonstrations remained peaceful, but there were reports of a few attacks across the county. At least two Iraqis were killed and 14 were wounded in them.
The U.S. military reports that troop levels are now the lowest since the 2003 invasion and will remain at 98,000 until after March elections, even as Iraqi soldiers prepare to handle poll-related violence themselves. At least 10 Iraqis were killed and 26 were wounded in new attacks, some election-related. Also, the families of Iraqi detainees are paying blood money to protect their sons upon release.
Although casualties were light today—at least 13 Iraqis were killed and 15 were wounded—a number of important stories made the headlines. Among them is the announcement of Tony Blair’s appearance at the Iraq Inquiry. Meanwhile, a U.S. soldier was found guilty of cruelty, while the Iraqi government moved ahead with plans to sue a U.S. …
Continue reading “Monday: 13 Iraqis Killed, 15 Wounded”
Updated at 7:50 p.m. EST, Nov. 12, 2009
At least nine Iraqis were killed and 19 more were wounded in the latest violence. This includes some attacks that were not reported yesterday due to the Armistice Day observances. Also, the Iraqi presidential council has recommended Jan. 18 as the date for national elections.