An exploaion was reported Monday in central Baghdad near a fortified compound housing the Iraqi government and the US embassy. A large plume of smoke was seen rising from the Green Zone area on the west bank of the Tigris River and several US helicopters hovered overhead.
Meanwhile, Iraqi interim President Ghazi al-Yawer threatened Monday to use a "very sharp sword" to fight those threatening the security of the country.
"Terrorism isn't just killing and blowing up bombs, whoever threatens the ordinary life of the people is a terrorist," al-Yawer told reporters. "We have a very sharp sword ready for anyone who threatens the security of this country."
Al-Yawer, who was meeting with Defense Minister Hazem Shaalan and National Guard Brig. Gen. Muther al-Rashardi, said the roughly 160,000 foreugn troops led by the United States were required to stay to fight the "insurgents," but violent groups should not use this as an excuse to continue attacks.
"Those who claim they are resisting the occupation, the occupation is over now," he said, according to The AP. "We want to tell anyone who wants to threaten the security of this country: 'Enough,' I say, 'Enough. Stop.'"
Al-Rashardi said the national guard has divided the capital, Baghdad, into eight sectors to make it easier to control. "We have very big plans to follow this up," Shaalan said. "We are ready to sacrifice ourselves for our people." (albawaba.com)
© 2004 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
