|
Iraq Delays Major Offensive Amid Rebel Contacts
 Iraq said yesterday it has delayed a major anti-insurgent offensive ahead of December elections, as President Jalal Talabani confirmed he had been contacted by rebels wanting to join the political process. The announcement came as the leader of the countryâs most powerful political party, the Supreme Council for the Islamic Revolution in Iraq (SCIRI), criticized US forces for preventing Iraqi troops tackling the insurgency head-on amid allegations of a return to Saddam-era abuses. Interior Minister Bayan Baker Solagh, also a SCIRI member, announced the suspension of the large-scale offensive against âhotbeds of terrorismâ following an appeal by Arab League Secretary-General Amr Moussa. âPresident Talabani got in touch with me after receiving a call from Moussa, and asked me to call off this operation to ensure the success of the national reconciliation conferenceâ in February, Solagh told reporters.Meanwhile, Talabani confirmed he had received calls from people claiming to be linked to the insurgency, saying they were ready to engage in political talks. âWe salute all those who want to engage in dialogue,â he said. Posted by: Fred 2005-11-28 |
| http://www.rantburg.com/poparticle.php?ID=136045 |