In a truck bomb explosion at an Italian military base in southern Iraq, at least 17 Italians and 8 Iraqis were killed. This is the first time Italian military forces in the U.S.-led coalition have suffered casualties. The explosion occurred after the truck passed through barriers outside the Italian Carabinieri headquarters in the city of Nasiriyah. Italian officials in Rome stated that among the dead were 11 Carabinieri, 4 soldiers, and one civilian. Hospital officials in Nasiriyah reported that eight Iraqis were also killed. The President of Italy described the bombing at the Nasiriyah base as a cowardly act by terrorists. He added that these soldiers were killed while performing their duty, which was to help Iraqis return to peace, order, and security. Silvio Berlusconi, the Prime Minister of Italy, stated that this attack would not deter Italy's resolve to continue the fight against terrorism. Upon hearing the news of the explosion in Rome, the Italian Parliament canceled its regular session. Some Italians are calling for Parliament to withdraw Italian forces from Iraq. Meanwhile, in another part of Iraq, relatives of 5 Iraqis claimed that American soldiers killed them while they were in a truck carrying chickens in the city of Fallujah. Additionally, two American soldiers were killed in separate bombings in Baghdad and its vicinity.
At least 25 killed in truck explosion at Italian military base in southern Iraq - 2003-11-12
A truck bomb exploded at an Italian military base in southern Iraq, killing at least 25 people, including 17 Italians. This incident marks the first casualties for Italian forces in the U.S.-led coalition, prompting discussions in Italy about withdrawing troops. The attack highlights ongoing violence and instability in Iraq.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
A truck bomb exploded at an Italian military base in Nasiriyah, Iraq, killing at least 25 people, including 17 Italians. This incident marks the first casualties for Italian forces in the U.S.-led coalition.
- The attack resulted in the deaths of 11 Carabinieri, 4 soldiers, and one civilian.
- The bombing has sparked discussions in Italy about the potential withdrawal of troops from Iraq.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
The Iraq War began in 2003 with the U.S.-led invasion aimed at toppling Saddam Hussein. The aftermath has seen significant violence and challenges in establishing security.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
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