US forces launch offensive in Iraq
10,000 troops are involved in the offensive
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Tuesday, 19, Jun 2007 09:58
US forces have launched an offensive in and around the city of Baquba to target suspected al-Qaida militants.
About 10,000 troops are involved in the offensive - called Operation Arrowhead Ripper - which is attempting to eliminate militant presence in the troubled province of Diyala.
US forces said 22 militants had been killed during the early stages of the offensive after daylight operations commenced following "quick-strike night-time" air assaults.
General Mick Bednarek said the purpose of the offensive was to "destroy the al-Qaida influences" in Diyala.
"That is the number one, bottom-line, up-front, in-your-face, task and purpose," he said.
As well as the 10,000 troops, attack helicopters and close air support will take part in the operation, which will be coordinated from the newly formed Diyala operations centre.
Mr Bednarek said the new centre was key to integrated coalition forces and the Iraqi police and army.
"The key significance, though, is getting the Iraqi ministries engaged to provide fundamental goods and services, such as food, fuel, displaced persons support and education," the general added.
"The governor will have oversight and the people will start to see improved basic services which will build the trust and confidence of the people not only in the provincial government, but in the central government as well," he said.
Baquba is north of Baghdad and has been regarded as a militant stronghold with offshoots of violence throughout the Diyala province.
The latest mass operation is part of US president George Bush's troop surge initiative aimed at providing the manpower to implement a crackdown in Baghdad and launch other operations in various regions.