More News and Links on Iraq

1. Report Backs Iraq Strike and Cites Iran Peril By DAVID E. SANGER Published: March 16, 2006(Need to be NY Times Member to view)
   
2. U.S. Launches Largest Air Assault in Iraq Since Start of WarBy THE ASSOCIATED PRESS Published: March 16, 2006

Filed at 10:52 a.m. ET
BAGHDAD, Iraq (AP) -- The United States on Thursday launched what was termed the largest air assault since the U.S.-led invasion, targeting insurgent strongholds north of the capital, the military said.

The U.S. military said Iraqi troops also were involved in the operation aimed at clearing a ''suspected insurgent operating area northeast of Samarra.''

''More than 1,500 Iraqi and Coalition troops, over 200 tactical vehicles, and more than 50 aircraft participated in the operation,'' the military statement said.

Samarra is 60 miles north of Baghdad.

The military said the operation was expected to continue over several days against insurgent targets in Salahuddin province.

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