(KUNA) -- There is no retreat nor negotiations with outlawed armed men in southern city of Basra, Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri Al-Maliki said on Thursday.The Prime Minister's comment came in a government press release and during his reception in Basra of a tribal delegation from the city who announced their support to government military operation in the city. Al-Maliki explained that the city has suffered enough from instability and insecurity, and killing of innocent civilians, including women and children. "We answered your call and our national duty to save the city from thugs and gangs who frightened our citizens and stole our national treasures," Al-Maliki said. The government chief added "We have made up our minds to enter this battle and we will continue until the end, no retreat." Al-Maliki praised the success made so far, particularly the tribes declaration and support of the Iraqi armed forces.
Earlier, the Mehdi Army fighters loyal to radical Shia cleric Moqtada Sadr called on Al-Maliki to withdraw his troops and send a parliamentary delegation for negotiations regarding the situation in Basra. The Iraqi Prime Minister has personally overseen the operation in Basra since last Monday, the military operation involves some 30,000 troops and police.