Multi-National Corps – Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
RELEASE No. 20070925-03
September 25, 2007

UPDATE: Provincial Leaders and Coalition Forces attacked in Diyala Province
Multi-National Division – North PAO

BAQOUBA, Iraq – A suicide bomber detonated outside a Mosque in Shifta, a village of Baqubah, killing 24 local nationals and wounding 37 others Sept 24.

Senior Iraqi Provincial Leaders and Coalition Forces from Diyala were conducting a brotherhood festival, which included more than 800 people across the Sunni and Shia sects and multiple tribes, after breaking of the fast feast when the attack took place. 

“Once again, al-Qaida demonstrated the hatred they have for the citizens of Iraq by conducting a despicable attack against its people during one of their most revered celebrations—Ramadan,” said Col. David W. Sutherland, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division commander, who was also present at the scene during the attack.   “Our hearts and prayers go to the families of those who were killed and injured during this horrendous attack.”

Fourteen of the Iraqi citizens wounded during the attack were transported to Forward Operating Base Warhorse for initial treatment.  Six of those were later evacuated to Balad for further medical attention.

“This attack will not stop the provincial government’s efforts to reconcile the tribes and help them put aside their differences to achieve unity,” said Governor Ra’ad al-Tamimi, Diyala Province governor.  “This attack only solidifies the commitment made by those tribal leaders who realized there is strength in unity.”

“The Iraqi Security Forces and our Coalition Forces will not stop conducting offensive operations until we bring these terrorists to justice,” said Sutherland.

This incident remains under investigation.

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