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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
RELEASE No. 20070107-8
Jan. 7, 2007

IA, CF continue to clear safe haven
Multi-National Division – North PAO

TIKRIT, Iraq – During ongoing operations south of Balad Ruz, Soldiers from the 1st Brigade, 5th Iraqi Army, with support from coalition forces, continue to clear the objective area, targeting specific terrorist cells which historically use the area as a safe haven to conduct random attacks against the local population and maintain a supply base.

The current operations began Jan. 4, with a combined air and ground assault into the area in the outskirts of Turki village.  IA and CF Soldiers established mobile and stationary positions along possible escape routes to isolate the area and facilitated the searching of the area for weapon supplies, improvised explosive device-making material and terrorists.

“The terrorists believe we will not attack them in their safe havens and believe they can use these areas to spread violence throughout the region,” said Col. David W. Sutherland, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division commander, and senior U.S. Army officer in the Diyala province. “The 5th Iraqi Army Division believes that we must continue to take the fight to those individuals that use violence against the Iraqi people for their own personal and financial gain.  The Coalition Forces will continue to support this Iraqi Force.”

During the initial hours of the operation, IA with CF Soldiers supporting encountered numerous improvised explosive devices emplaced in an attempt to defend these safe havens and slow down the movement of CF.  The AIF efforts were ineffective and the obstacles were cleared as the combined effort continued.

Additionally, coalition aircraft were able to engage a number of anti-Iraqi forces in fighting positions, as well as AIF who were spotted emplacing IEDs along one of the main roads. Several suspected AIF were also detained.

“Although the IA and CF have not encountered heavy resistance as of yet, this operation remains critical for the establishment of a safe and secure environment for the citizens of Diyala,” said Sutherland. “The enemy in this area must understand that they cannot operate without impunity to terrorize other tribes, innocent people and provide the resources of death to other terrorists.  Our goal is to enable the people who want to participate in the Iraqi democracy into the political process, and voice their concerns without fear and intimidation by those that use terror to spread their views.” 

Maj. Robert Cain, the 3-1 Cav. Executive Officer, said, “So far, what we have found, and the actions of the enemy, are consistent with our expectations. There have been no surprises, and operations will continue based on the goals of the IA and the Government of Diyala.”  
“The enemy’s tactics are designed to kill and harm innocent civilians. The IA and CF are here to capture or kill the terrorists and provide security for the citizens of Diyala,” Cain said. 

“These types of operations are vital for the IA Soldiers to conduct.  The IA will soon take full responsibility of the security for the province,” Sutherland said.

“The morale of the Iraqi Soldiers is high and they are continuously showing discipline and professionalism when dealing with the local civilians; this includes men, women and children.”

“Developing a military force with valid leadership skills comes from training.  The IA are training as they are in contact with the terrorists and doing very well,” Sutherland added.

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