On the Third Hand…

U.S., Iraqi Forces Prepare for Major Assaults in Najaf

U.S. Marines and soldiers and Iraqi National Guardsmen engage in joint training exercises in preparation for major assaults against enemy forces in the Iraqi city of Najaf, a Multinational Force Iraq news release said today.

This training continues as sporadic fighting persists between 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit forces and outlaw militia in the Wadi Al Salam cemetery. Squad-sized enemy elements, seeking sanctuary in buildings and mosques surrounding the holy Imam Ali Shrine, are still entering the cemetery and engaging MEU forces with small arms, rocket-propelled grenades and sniper fire, the release said.

They also continue to set up mortar firing positions immediately outside these buildings and mosques, knowing MEU forces are making every effort to ensure the protection of one of Islam’s holiest shrines, officials said. Enemy forces were observed staging numerous piles of tires in the streets within the exclusionary zone around the shrine and setting them on fire.

That must smell good. I assume they are trying to block vision.

Marines, augmented by Iraqi National Guardsmen from Najaf and other locations, two Army reinforced infantry battalions and one Army aviation battalion — all now under the operational control of the 11th MEU — are working together to constitute the force that will conduct the major assaults on Najaf, the news release said. Training with the Iraqi National Guard began several days ago, “and will foster an efficient, effective, cohesive team as ING leads the fight in ridding their city of those who break the rules of law and order,” according to the release.

“Iraqi and U.S. forces are making final preparations as we get ready to finish this fight” that was started by militia loyal to radical Shiia cleric Muqtada al-Sadr, said Col. Anthony M. Haslam, 11th MEU commander, quoted in a Multinational Force Iraq news release. “The desired end state is one of stability and security, where the citizens of Najaf do not live in fear of violence or kidnappings and where the city of Najaf can once again return to peace and prosperity.”

It’s good news that we really are planning major assaults. It’s about time. The Iraqis there have been suffering from Al Sadr’s thugs long enough. And Al Sadr is Not A Cleric. He just plays one in the media.