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14/05/2004
US forces clash with militants in Najaf
The lull in the fighting between Coalition forces and militia loyal to the radical cleric Moqtada Al Sadr ended today as US troops fought their way into the holy city of Najaf.
US tanks moved into the outskirts of the city and set up roadblocks on roads between Najaf and Kufa. The US move was met with a sharp response by Iraqi fighters who traded small arms fire with soldiers. Most of the exchanges centred around a cemetery close to the Imam Ali Shrine – where Al Sadr had taken refuge.
However as fighting continued it was clear that the cleric had slipped the Coalition ring of steel – when Al Sadr delivered a sermon at a temple in the nearby town of Kufa.
Several people have been killed in the fighting, according to reports, and early indications from local hospitals suggest that at least 13 people have been injured. The Coalition operation is ongoing.
Elsewhere, around 300 detainees of Baghdad's Abu Ghraib jail have been released as US authorities concede that the alleged conduct of warders at the prison had rendered it unmanageable. Further releases are planned over the course of the coming weeks.
There are currently around 4,000 people being held in the jail.
(gmcg)
US tanks moved into the outskirts of the city and set up roadblocks on roads between Najaf and Kufa. The US move was met with a sharp response by Iraqi fighters who traded small arms fire with soldiers. Most of the exchanges centred around a cemetery close to the Imam Ali Shrine – where Al Sadr had taken refuge.
However as fighting continued it was clear that the cleric had slipped the Coalition ring of steel – when Al Sadr delivered a sermon at a temple in the nearby town of Kufa.
Several people have been killed in the fighting, according to reports, and early indications from local hospitals suggest that at least 13 people have been injured. The Coalition operation is ongoing.
Elsewhere, around 300 detainees of Baghdad's Abu Ghraib jail have been released as US authorities concede that the alleged conduct of warders at the prison had rendered it unmanageable. Further releases are planned over the course of the coming weeks.
There are currently around 4,000 people being held in the jail.
(gmcg)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:After a dry start this morning rain will spread from the northwest across all parts. This afternoon will be dull with some patchy rain and drizzle. Becoming much milder through the afternoon. Maximum temperature 11 °C.Tonight:A cloudy evening and night with a little light rain or drizzle, perhaps some clear periods developing along the east coast. A very mild night everywhere. Minimum temperature 10 °C.
