MNF-I OPERATIONS IN IRAQ 26-27 AUGUST 2004

MNF-I OPERATIONS IN IRAQ 26-27 AUGUST 2004

BAGHDAD – In Operation Iraqi Freedom, coalition aircraft on Aug. 26 flew 46 strike sorties in Close Air Support (CAS) for Main Supply Routes (MSR) and Alternate Supply Routes (ASR), and for Troops in Contact (TIC) situations.

U.S. Air Force and Marine Corps aircraft provided close air support to MNF troops in contact in the vicinity of An Najaf. A total of 14 munitions were expended for this support prior to the cease fire declared by the Interim Iraqi Government.

U.S. Air Force and U.S. Navy aircraft provided close air support to MNF troops in contact in the vicinity of Al Amarah with no weapons expended.

As of this morning it was estimated that at least 2000 civilians were in the Old City of Najaf, and will assist in escorting the al-Mahdi Army out of the Imam Ali Mosque as per the announced agreement.

During this continued cease-fire MNF troops will continue to act only in self-defense.

MNF will continue to support the governor of Najaf and the IIG while order is restored to the city of Najaf.

Upcoming events supported by MNF include:

28 Aug – International Zone hospital addition will show Iraqis being employed and long-term facility for use by the Iraqi people.

29 Aug – Al Kasik Military Base continues to train and rebuild, despite being struck by VBIED and mortar attacks.

1 Sep – Phase I Sharq Dijla water treatment plant expansion. This $25 million project will expand the capacity of the main water treatment for east Baghdad. Project completion date is 1 Sep.

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