At least eight Iraqis were killed and 10 more were wounded in light violence as Iraq prepares for the official end of U.S. military operations. U.S. Vice President Joe Biden arrived in Baghdad to officiate at handover ceremonies.
The first U.S. soldier to die since the withdrawal of combat troops this week was killed in during a rocket attack in Basra today. At least four Iraqis were killed and 43 more were wounded in other attacks.
At least 11 Iraqis were killed and 25 more were wounded as coverage of attacks resumed in the media. The parliamentary stalemate dominated the headlines, along with oil and Kurdish concerns, but the most significant story of the day came from the United Kingdom where an inquiry into the causes of the Iraq War continues to embarrass the war hawks.
At least three Iraqis were killed and seven more were wounded in the latest violence. Also, one U.S. soldier was killed while conducting security operations. With the occupation winding down and foreign reporters having gone home, fewer reports manage to get out of the country unless a major story occurs.
At least six Iraqis were killed and seven more were wounded in a second day of unusually light violence. Meanwhile, one U.S. soldier was killed and three more were wounded in what is being treated as a non-hostile helicopter crash. Also, Gen. Ray Odierno said in a television interview that the U.S. drawdown is on track; however, there are signs that a full withdrawal could spell more sectarian violence.
At least 31 Iraqis were killed and 15 more were wounded in a storm of attacks across the country. Most of the attacks occurred in and around Baghdad, which has been unusually quiet in recent days. Also, Gen. Ray Odierno admitted that there is a “Plan B” for a slower drawdown of U.S. forces should the political landscape remain chaotic after March elections.
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.
Updated at 5:54 p.m. EDT, Aug. 17, 2009
The U.S. Commander in Iraq, Gen. Ray Odierno, revealed that he’s been in talks with Iraqi and Kurdish officials about deploying U.S. troops to disputed territories in northern Iraq. Meanwhile, at least 23 Iraqis were killed and 28 more were wounded in violent attacks across the country. Also, Human Rights Watch has asked the Iraqi government to stop abuse targeting Iraqi homosexuals.
Updated at 7:41 p.m. EDT, July, 3, 2009
U.S. Vice President Joe Biden spent part of his three-day trip to Iraq speaking with Gen. Ray Odierno and Ambassador Christopher Hill over breakfast. He also plans to meet with President Jalal Talabani and Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki. Several NFL coaches visited Iraq also, as part of a USO trip. Meanwhile, three Iraqis were killed and four more were wounded across northern Iraq.
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.
