Panetta says U.S. forces attack Iraqi Shi'ite insurgents
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 11 July 2011 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Panetta says U.S. forces attack Iraqi Shi'ite insurgents, 11 July 2011, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/4e2043af23.html [accessed 8 June 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
July 11, 2011
U.S. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta
U.S. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta says U.S. troops are carrying out operations against Iranian-backed Shi'ite insurgents in Iraq almost a year after the military announced a formal end to its combat operations in the country.
Panetta made the announcement today during a previously unannounced visit to Iraq. He said U.S. forces have carried out joint operations with the Iraqi security forces as well as unilateral missions against militants.
Tehran has denied U.S. accusations that it is smuggling weapons and ammunition to support militants in Iraq and Afghanistan.
U.S. forces formally ended combat operations at the end of last August. About 46,000 U.S. troops remain in Iraq, down from a high of 170,000 after the 2003 U.S.-led invasion.
They are scheduled to leave in less than six months unless a deal is reached between Baghdad and Washington.
compiled from agency reports
Link to original story on RFE/RL website
