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| Iraq |
| MNF News from Around Iraq |
| 2006-01-28 |
| Operations to disrupt insurgency activity were just one topic of discussion at the latest Baghdad briefing here Jan. 26. Joint efforts by Iraqi and Coalition Forces in addition to contributions by Coalition air efforts continue to help deter terrorism in the area. Local leaders near Forward Operating Base Kalsu also met to discuss community concerns. Operation Koa Canyon in Al Anbar province has denied Al-Qaeda in Iraq safe havens, munitions and funding, according to Maj. Gen. Rick Lynch, Multi-National Force - Iraq spokesman, "And with great success," he said. Combined forces have found and destroyed more than 4,300 artillery and mortar rounds, rockets, and mines; 267 kilograms (590 pounds) of explosive powder, 10,000 rounds of various types of ammunition (ranging from small-arms to tank main gun rounds). Many such operations were carried out with support from Coalition Air Force assets, including tactical air and logistical support. Of the 1,565 sorties flown last week, 421 were tactical air support, 122 were reconnaissance and more than 1,000 were logistical. Close air support was called in 21 times and expended "tactical munitions 13 times with precision guided munitions 70 percent of the time to avoid unnecessary collateral damage," Lynch said. Coalition air forces flew 17,000 sorties in 2005. Insurgency groups consist of terrorists and foreign fighters, Iraqi rejectionists and Saddamists. Disruption of insurgency activity by Iraqi rejectionists is contributing to the degradation of Al Qaeda in the area, according to Maj. Gen Lynch. "In the last several months, six major leaders in the Zarqawi network have been killed by local insurgents. The people of Iraq are saying ‘Enough, we will not tolerate terrorists here.’" |
| Posted by: Anonymoose |