Good News From Iraq

ISF capabilities, capacity continue to grow

BAGHDAD, Iraq (May 5, 2004)– “Zarqawi is zooming in on Iraq, and we are zooming in on him.”

This was just one of several topics Multi-National Force – Iraq Spokesman Maj. Gen. Rick Lynch said in his weekly press conference from Baghdad May 4.

Maj. Gen. Lynch also discussed in detail the growing capabilities and capacity of Iraqi security forces and how they continue to take active roles in day-to-day operations around Iraq.

This past week was no exception. The general said nearly 70 percent of company-level and above missions were either independent Iraqi security forces or combined Coalition and Iraqi security forces' operations.

The general added that more than 253,000 trained and equipped Iraqi security forces are securing the borders, cities and villages of Iraq . He said the training and equipping of the Iraqi security force is nearly 80 percent complete and we expect to have the total force of 325,000 Iraqi security forces in place by the year's end.

“We continue to see improved performance of Iraqi security forces across Iraq and, as a result, Coalition forces are taking a reduced role in the planning and execution of combined operations,” said Maj. Gen. Lynch. “Coupled with the two divisions, 16 brigades and 58 Iraqi security force battalions that are in the lead for security across Iraq , we are seeing tremendous progress.”

Speaking of Iraqi security forces taking the lead, in the Western Ninawah province May 3, the 3rd Battalion, 3rd Brigade, 3rd Iraqi Army Division assumed the lead in security operations in and around Sinjar.

According to information provided at the press conference, the 3rd Battalion has proven itself to be a skilled and professional fighting force and senior U.S. leaders are confident in its ability to handle its increased responsibility.

Iraq police recruiting efforts also continue in al Anbar and recently more than 230 recruits were screened as potential Iraqi police candidates.

A suicide bomber attacked a Fallujah police recruiting checkpoint May 3, detonating concealed explosives as he walked toward a group of civilians. At least seven civilians were killed and12 wounded as a result of the attack and one Iraqi police officer was also wounded.

Marines from Regimental Combat Team 5 responded to the incident and assisted Fallujah police officers in securing the scene.

The attack did not discourage the recruiting effort.

Before the bomb blast, 65 recruits had been processed at the site. Amazingly, the recruiting process was reopened approximately one hour after the attack, and 88 more recruits appeared to serve as members of the Iraqi police – true testament to the commitment of the Sons of al Anbar to be a part of the solution in Iraq .

“The fact that an overwhelming number of recruits arrived immediately after the attack signifies the local rejection of the intimidation and terrorism,” said Col. Larry Nicholson, commanding officer of RCT-5.

Despite terrorist attempts to foil progress in Iraq , several communities north of Baghdad are starting to flourish with the help of the Iraqi Army, local community leaders and Coalition forces and the completion of essential service projects.

Service projects help Iraqi communities flourish

In Tarmiya, more than $10 million worth of essential service projects have been completed and more projects are underway. Completed projects there include road repairs; Enfaiye Village generator and pump installation; agricultural packs; and blankets and medical supplies. Projects underway include: new water supply pipeline; new electrical line; new birthing room; Qada building renovation; Tarmiya Town Hall improvements; upgrade to the cities drainage system; trash removal; additional road improvements; medical equipment; and medical and school supplies.

In Saab al Bour, electrical upgrades, school repairs and a water treatment and sewage system have been completed, while in Rashidiya and Hussienya, a farming co-op has been completed that will support more than 6,000 acres of land and more than 200 farmers.

These are just a few examples of the hundreds of projects that continue in Iraq every day. By working with Neighborhood Advisory Councils, local political and religious leaders and the Iraqi security forces, Coalition forces are able to provide these projects and improve the lives of Iraqis.

(Content compiled from wire and Defense Department sources)

and this is what we face on the home front in the UK http://www.westernresistance.com/blog/archives/002095.html

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