The Iraqi Defense Minister has warned that the transitional government will suppress insurgents and terrorists threatening the security of Iraq. Hazim al-Shalan told reporters that if necessary, 'we will cut off their hands and execute them.' Falah Hassan al-Nuqib, the Iraqi Interior Minister, stated that he would consider imposing martial law if it is needed to stop the violence. These harsh statements came during a violent month that included 20 car bombings. On Thursday, two separate attacks in Baghdad and north of the capital resulted in the deaths of 41 people and injuries to over 155 others. Meanwhile, on Friday, near Baghuba in northeastern Baghdad, insurgents clashed with U.S. forces for the second consecutive day, resulting in the deaths of two insurgents, and in the city of Nasiriyah in southern Iraq, at least three Iraqi police officers were injured due to an explosion that occurred the previous night.
Iraqi Defense Minister: We Will Cut Off Their Hands and Execute Them - 2004-06-18
The Iraqi Defense Minister has issued a strong warning against insurgents and terrorists, stating that the government will take severe measures to ensure security. This comes amid a violent month marked by multiple bombings and clashes with U.S. forces, resulting in significant casualties.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
The Iraqi Defense Minister issued a strong warning against insurgents, stating that the government would take severe measures to ensure security amid a violent month marked by multiple bombings and clashes with U.S. forces.
- The month included 20 car bombings resulting in significant casualties.
- Recent attacks resulted in the deaths of 41 people and injuries to over 155 others.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
Following the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq in 2003, the country faced significant insurgency and violence, complicating efforts for a stable government.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
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Translation confidence: 85%