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Page 6 of 29 |
| Author: | Madeline [ 10 Dec 07, 14:49 ] |
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Forces seize Taliban duo Two senior Taliban leaders have been seized in Afghanistan after the biggest push by Nato since the regime was toppled in the wake of 9/11. More than 2,000 British and American troops are locked in fierce fighting around Musa Qala in the south of the country. So far one British soldier has died in the battle, bringing the UK's death toll in Afghanistan to 86. The ground assault was launched on Friday night, backed up by aerial bombardments on enemy positions from Nato jets and attack helicopters. UK Defence Minister Des Browne, who is in Kabul, said Musa Qala had taken on iconic importance. And Brigadier Andrew Mackay said: "The town is symbolic to the Taliban because it represents an act of defiance by the insurgents." Mirror |
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| Author: | Madeline [ 10 Dec 07, 14:55 ] |
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PM arrives in Afghanistan Sun |
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| Author: | Madeline [ 10 Dec 07, 14:56 ] |
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Happy Xmas, your war is over! Sun |
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| Author: | Madeline [ 11 Dec 07, 1:01 ] |
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Victim: Gang-Rape Cover-Up by U.S., Halliburton/KBR abcnews.go.com |
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| Author: | Madeline [ 12 Dec 07, 15:31 ] |
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Brown: 'It's time to talk to the Taliban' Independent |
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| Author: | Madeline [ 14 Dec 07, 15:31 ] |
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Heroes come home Families hang the flags out yesterday as 200 soldiers from Iraq marched home for Christmas. The 3 Logistic Support Regiment paraded through Abingdon, near Oxford, as hundreds of relatives and colleagues cheered. Sergeant Gail Harper, 31, a keen backer of the Mirror's Honour the Brave medal campaign, said: "It's a really nice feeling to know that people back home are supporting soldiers." Julia Wright, who was reunited with her husband, Corporal Richard Wright, said: "It's fantastic to have him back for Christmas." YOUR XMAS MESSAGES TO THE TROOPS L/Cpl Phil Pimlott 1 CSMR: Miss you tons, stay safe. Love Mom, Kev, Little Sis, Nan, Dave, Nan, Grandad, David, Kim, Jack and Georgia Alec UK JF Med group: Hi Son, we love and miss you every day, and are all very proud of you. Love always, Mum XX L Cpl Darren Williams: Hi honey, sent you lots of presents so you're not missing anything! Love you loads, Lindsay, family and friends Mirror |
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| Author: | Madeline [ 17 Dec 07, 13:00 ] |
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Video link with this post... UK has left behind murder and chaos, says Basra police chief Blunt assessment delivered as British hand over security to Iraqis (Warning: The film below contains graphic images which some viewers may find distressing) The full scale of the chaos left behind by British forces in Basra was revealed yesterday as the city's police chief described a province in the grip of well-armed militias strong enough to overpower security forces and brutal enough to behead women considered not sufficiently Islamic. As British forces finally handed over security in Basra province, marking the end of 4½ years of control in southern Iraq, Major General Jalil Khalaf, the new police commander, said the occupation had left him with a situation close to mayhem. "They left me militia, they left me gangsters, and they left me all the troubles in the world," he said in an in an interview for Guardian Films and ITV. Khalaf painted a very different picture from that of British officials who, while acknowledging problems in southern Iraq, said yesterday's handover at Basra airbase was timely and appropriate. Major General Graham Binns, who led British troops into the city in 2003, said the province had "begun to regain its strength". He added: "I came to rid Basra of its enemies and I now formally hand Basra back to its friends." But in the film, to be broadcast on the Guardian Unlimited website and ITV News, Khalaf lists a catalogue of failings, saying: · Basra has become so lawless that in the last three months 45 women have been killed for being "immoral" because they were not fully covered or because they may have given birth outside wedlock; · The British unintentionally rearmed Shia militias by failing to recognise that Iraqi troops were loyal to more than one authority; · Shia militia are better armed than his men and control Iraq's main port. In the interview he said the main problem the Iraqi security forces now faced was the struggle to wrest control back from the militia. He appealed for the British to help him do that: "We need the British to help us to watch our borders - both sea and land and we need their intelligence and air support and to keep training the Iraqi police." David Miliband, the foreign secretary, who attended the handover ceremony, acknowledged that the territory was not "a land of milk and honey" and promised Britain would remain a "committed friend" of Iraq. But he insisted it was the right time to hand back control. "The key conditions for the transfer of security responsibility to the Iraqi security forces are whether they are up to it: do they have the numbers? Do they have the leadership and training to provide leadership for this province? And the answer to those three questions is yes," he said. After the handover Des Browne, the defence secretary, praised British forces - 174 of whom have died since the start of the war in March 2003. "Their contribution has been outstanding and their courage inspiring," he said. A scaled-down UK force will remain in a single base at Basra airport, with a small training mission and a rapid reaction team on "overwatch". Britain now has 4,500 troops in Iraq. The prime minister, Gordon Brown, has said numbers would shrink to 2,500 by mid-2008 though those released may be redeployed to Afghanistan. Khalaf, who has survived 20 assassination attempts since he became police chief six months ago, said Britain's intentions had been good but misguided. "I don't think the British meant for this mess to happen. When they disbanded the Iraqi police and military after Saddam fell the people they put in their place were not loyal to the Iraqi government. The British trained and armed these people in the extremist groups and now we are faced with a situation where these police are loyal to their parties not their country." He said the most shocking aspect of the breakdown of law and order in Basra was the murder of women for being unIslamic. "They are being killed because they are accused of behaving in an immoral way. When they kill them they put underwear and indecent clothes on them." In his office Khalaf showed the Guardian a computer holding the files of 48 unidentified women. "Some of them have even been killed with their children because their killer says that they come out of an adulterous relationship," he said. Vince Cable, the acting Lib Dem leader, called for a timetable to bring all British troops home from Iraq, adding: "If we are handing power back to the Iraqis, why are 4,500 British troops needed for what is essentially a training mission?" · The General's Last Stand: a Guardianfilms/ITV News investigation can be seen now on the Guardian website and later tonight on ITV News at 6.30pm and 10.30pm guardian |
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| Author: | Madeline [ 18 Dec 07, 10:56 ] |
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Mum's message to sons in Iraq With her three soldier sons away in Iraq, all Jane Moitt wants for Christmas is her boys home safe and sound. Her eldest son Chris Kilby, 21, is a team commander, Michael, 20, is a sniper and Darren, 18, is serving on the frontline as a machine gunner. All are with 1st Battalion, The Mercian Regiment and are serving six-month tours in Basra. Jane, 39, who has split from the boys' father Barry Kilby and recently remarried, shares her moving Christmas letter to the sons she dearly wishes were back with her in Birkenhead, Wirral... Dearest Chris, Michael and Darren.. Missing you all like mad just now. It doesn't seem long ago that you were all fighting over whose turn it was to open the advent calendar, and now you're fighting for Queen and country in Iraq. I'm so proud of you all, but can't help feeling worried too. I sent each of you a Christmas box - did you get them? I'll feel terrible if they're delayed in the post and you'll spend the day with no treats. To save any arguments I've sent you all the same things - chocolates, biscuits, boxers, hats, smellies, mini Christmas trees and lots of cards from all the family. You all said it's really hot during the day out there but is freezing at night, so I've sent the thickest, warmest socks I could find. They've got Christmas trees and Homer Simpson on though, so I hope the other lads don't take the mick. I really think you should wear pyjamas at night too, but I know you'd rather shiver in bed than wear them in front of the other soldiers. Wish I could send you some whisky to keep you warm - but I know I'm not allowed. Nan and grandad have also sent you a box... make sure you send them a nice thank you letter. Chris, I got such a horrible fright the other night when you rang home. I heard the siren, then you said you had to go and the phone went dead. Thank God you called back an hour later to say you were OK - it was the longest hour of my life. I've been glued to the telly for news reports, and froze last week when they said a British soldier had been killed. I thought, "Please no, not one of my boys." I was so relieved you were all fine, but feel so sad for his poor family. I have to keep thinking positively and imagining you back home. All your presents are waiting. I managed to get the satnav you wanted with the speed camera alert. I'm tempted to use it myself as I'm the one with penalty points on my driving licence! I've also bought the two Burton jumpers you liked, as well as the ripped jeans. You said the food is really good in camp ... does that mean you'll eat your sprouts on Christmas Day? You never eat mine. I know you feel bad because you're working on Christmas Day and might not be able to call home. But don't worry, love. I know you're thinking about your old mum as much as I'm thinking of you. Michael, this is your first Christmas as a married man. My middle son has flown the nest! I know you'd have spent the day with lovely Nicola, but it would have been so nice if we could have had Christmas Eve together. I'm sure you're missing Nicola terribly, but please don't worry too much about her. I'm keeping a discreet eye on her and phoning regularly. She misses you just as much, but is trying to be really strong and is coping OK. I've bought her loads of girly smellies and a gorgeous watch and although she'll have a nice Christmas with her family, I know she'd rather have you home than any present. I've bought you a couple of Xbox games, but I worry about the time you spend at your computer, son - it'll ruin your eyesight. I know you're finding things are hard, but please try to keep your chin up. Darren, when you said you'd like an electric razor I laughed and said you didn't need one because you've hardly any facial hair. But I was only teasing. Of course I've bought you one and I'm saving all your presents for January when you're home on leave. We'll have a mini-Christmas. I worry for you so much, just because you're the youngest one of my lovely lads. Are you sure you can carry your machine gun? They're very heavy. I got the CDs you fancied - they sound like a big bunch of noise to me! And yes, I also bought the jeans and hoodies you hinted at. I told you the trainers were too expensive - but couldn't help splashing out anyway. It's a shame you've not seen much of Chris and Mike - they managed to see each other quite a lot. I'd love to think of my three boys together at Christmas - but dearly wish it didn't have to be in Iraq. Promise me you'll stay safe. Thinking of you all the time, my handsome, strong, brave lads and dreaming of seeing you in the New Year. Love you lots Mum xxx YOUR FESTIVE WISHES TO THE TROOPS To Lance Cpl Paul Instone, Op Telic 12 Log Battalion: To our son and all his mates, we hope you have a safe Xmas and New Year. Looking forward to your return in June. All our love Kelly, mum, dad, Alice, Lauren and rest of the family. xxxxxxxx For my husband LCpl John Redman who is with 1 Lancs but attached to 1 Scots BG: To my gorgeous hubby. Just to say I miss and love you so much, even more at this time of year. I hope you can enjoy Christmas, it's hard I know but next year will be even more special when we are together. I am so proud of you and I think about you every day baby. Sam xxxxxxxxx To Alan Paisley in Camp Bastion: Daddy, sorry you can't be with me for my first Christmas. We'll have an extra special celebration on my birthday. Miss you loads, very proud of you, hugs & kisses. Ava xxxxxxxxx Email your festive messages and pictures to our boys and girls to features@mirror.co.uk or write to Troops' Messages, Features Desk, One Canada Square, London E14 5AP. We will print as many as we can. Mirror |
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| Author: | Madeline [ 18 Dec 07, 10:58 ] |
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Army hits back over Iraq taunt Britain insisted last night it was handing back a " recovering not decaying" Basra to Iraq. Al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahri had claimed Britain was "fleeing" the growing insurgency. In a video released within hours of the passing over of control on Sunday, the terror leader predicted that the move would lead to the "collapse" of Iraqi security forces. But military spokesman Major Mike Shearer said: "To us, this is fairly obvious campaign propaganda from an organisation which has no foothold in the province of Basra. "The British have handed over a recovering province, not a decaying one, to the Iraqis. To say insurgents are gaining strength shows a complete lack of understanding of the situation there." Shadow defence secretary Liam Fox said it "remained to be seen" if Iraqi security forces could protect the area. Uk troops, expected to be slashed to 2,500 by the spring, will now only intervene if they are invited. Mirror |
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| Author: | Madeline [ 18 Dec 07, 18:06 ] |
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U.S. Helps Turkey Hit Rebel Kurds In Iraq washingtonpost |
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| Author: | Madeline [ 27 Dec 07, 19:14 ] |
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Diplomats expelled from Afghanistan Hamid Karzai's spokesman said pair involved in activities that were not their jobs Two senior Western diplomats expelled from Afghanistan after being accused of talking to the Taliban have now left the country. Sources in the capital, Kabul, said the pair flew out on the same plane early on Thursday morning after two days of negotiations failed to prevent them being thrown out. Irishman Michael Semple, deputy head of the EU mission in Kabul, and Mervyn Patterson, a senior UN official, understood to be from Belfast, visited Musa Qala in Helmand province on Monday. The pair spoke to local leaders on the ground in the town which was recaptured by British and Afghan troops earlier this month. The UN said on Thursday that the talks were part of a process of reconnecting with people of all persuasions including "disaffected tribes and communities" but insisted that did not include the Taliban or terrorists. Nevertheless, the Afghan government accused the pair of acting in a way which was "detrimental to the national security of the country". President Hamid Karzai's spokesman, Humayun Hamidzada, claimed they were involved in activities "that were not their jobs". The UN vowed to continue talks to ensure its official would be allowed back into the country as soon as possible. Aleem Siddique, senior UN spokesman in Afghanistan, said: "I can confirm that one staff member has now left the country following a request from the government of Afghanistan. Negotiations are ongoing with the government of Afghanistan to ensure his return so that we can continue with the vital work of building peace in this country." He blamed a "misunderstanding" for the expulsions. Opposition leader David Cameron said: "These are very sensitive and very difficult and complicated matters and I quite understand that. It may well be, however, that the Government may want to clarify its position." Mr Cameron, speaking before he fired the starting gun at a fun run in Chadlington, Oxfordshire, added: "But I think, most important of all, it needs clear, consistent and decisive strategy in Afghanistan - which means having a single focal point for aid, stepping up the political work and making sure we strengthen the political system of the country as a whole." Metro |
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| Author: | Madeline [ 05 Jan 08, 15:41 ] |
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Top Military Blogger Dies In Iraq; Read His Final Post obsidianwings |
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| Author: | Madeline [ 10 Jan 08, 15:32 ] |
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Troops are waiting in fear Sun |
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| Author: | Madeline [ 13 Jan 08, 12:51 ] |
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US to pull out troops President Bush has pledged to pull 30,000 American troops from Iraq within six months. But after meeting his top US commander in Iraq yesterday, the president could not say when the remaining 130,000 soldiers will be withdrawn. Speaking in Kuwait, Mr Bush said: "If General Petraeus didn't want to continue the drawdown, that's fine with me, in order to make sure we succeed." So far, half the Iraqi provinces have been returned to Iraqi security control. US commanders say a Sunni backlash against al-Qaeda has reduced violence. Meanwhile, Iraq's parliament has passed a bill to allow ex-officials from Saddam Hussein's Ba'ath Party to return to public life. IRAQ DEATH TOLL THIS WEEK Allies 15 Iraqis 82 TOTAL SO FAR Allies 4,225 Iraqis 81,775 AFGHAN DEATH TOLL THIS WEEK Brits 0 Coalition 0 TOTAL SO FAR Brits 86 Coalition 621 sundaymirror |
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| Author: | Madeline [ 13 Jan 08, 13:06 ] |
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A series of articles and multimedia about veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan who have committed killings, or been charged with them, after coming home. nytimes |
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