Updated at 6:55 p.m. EST, Nov. 27, 2008
Parliament today approved a contentious U.S.-Iraqi security agreement that will allow U.S. troops to stay in the country for three more years. Meanwhile, at least eight Iraqis were killed and 43 more were wounded in the latest violence. Also, the European Union has promised to take-in 10,000 Iraqis. No Coaltion deaths were reported, but a U.S. soldier who deserted his unit has applied for asylum in Germany. He had served in Iraq but refused to return, calling the war illegal.
What was described as an “overwhelming majority” in parliament approved a proposed U.S.-Iraqi security agreement today. The pact must be submitted to the Iraqi Cabinet now, which is expected to give its okay. Among a number of key points is a timetable for U.S. withdrawal.
About 10,000 Iraqis living in refugee camps in Syria and Jordan will be allowed to live in Europe on a temporary basis though some, who are in need of medical attention or belong to persecuted minorities, will be allowed to resettle on a permanent basis.
In Mosul, two civilians were killed and 28 others were wounded during a suicide bombing. Earlier, another suicide bomber wounded six people in the Dawasa neighborhood.
In Baghdad, an Iraqi soldier was killed and three more were wounded during a bombing in Qahira. A civilian was killed and six others were wounded near Maysaloon Square. Another bomb downtown left one police commando dead.
Coalition forces killed one suspect and arrested two in Garma.
Five suspects were detained in Dhi Qar.
Four suspects carrying explosives were arrested in Karbala.
Two men were, one an Iranian, were arrested after they were discovered with two fuel tankers used for smuggling oil.
Compiled by Margaret Griffis
