The only new casualty reported in Iraq was that of a British soldier who was killed in Basra yesterday. It is unlikely that all violence took a holiday for the Eid and today’s prayer day. Meanwhile, Iraqi President Talabani arrived in Kirkuk for meetings on reconciliation efforts, and the Iraqi oil minister urged government departments to shave their budgets in response to falling oil prices. Also, Iraqi children are now being encouraged to hand over toy weapons so they are not mistaken for young insurgents.
A sticky bomb attached to a car exploded in Kirkuk, but no casualties were reported. Separately, 10 suspects were captured in raids just outside the city. Also, a number of countries condemned yesterday’s deadly bombing, including the United States, France, and Turkey. Iraqis mourned the dead as well. Among those killed was a popular Turkomen entertainer. Clerics have urged calm, while one lawmaker blamed al-Qaeda for the blast.
Baghdad residents celebrated a second year of relative peace during Eid al-Adha observances this year.
Two al-Qaeda suspects were detained in Samarra.
Japan officially ended their Iraq airlift mission today; however an anti-terrorism refueling operation was extended. The personnel are stationed in Kuwait and will finish withdrawal in March.
Near Mosul, 48 suspects were detained.
Compiled by Margaret Griffis
