Suicide Attack in Erbil, Northern Iraq - 2003-09-10

In a suicide attack in the city of Erbil in northern Iraq, at least 2 people were killed and over 40 others, including six Americans, were injured. The bomb, which was placed in a vehicle, exploded on Tuesday evening in front of a house reportedly used by American soldiers and intelligence agents. Local officials say the driver of the vehicle was killed, and a four-year-old child who was injured in the explosion later died. A spokesperson for the U.S. Army stated that the injured Americans were personnel from the Department of Defense but did not clarify whether they were military or civilian. In another incident, the U.S. Army reported that an American soldier was killed on Wednesday while defusing a bomb in Baghdad. Meanwhile, in Washington, lawmakers continue to discuss President Bush's request for additional funding to establish stability and reconstruction in Iraq. This request has intensified the debate over the direction and management of U.S. operations in Iraq. James McGovern, a Democratic representative from Massachusetts, stated that the American people need to know what is at stake and what the government expects from Congress. Today is a time for reality and transparency. We have spun around long enough and have been deceived.