World
US-Iraqi security forces kill 250 militants
WATCH VIDEO
Source: CCTV.com | 01-29-2007 08:57
Special Report: Iraq in Transition |
| Smoke rises from the site where a U.S. helicopter allegedly crashed near the town of Zarqa, north of the central Iraqi city of Najaf, Jan. 28, 2007. (Xinhua/AFP Photo) |
In Iraq, security forces backed by US helicopters have reportedly killed about 250 militants during a day-long battle outside the Shiite holy city of Najaf. The operation was allegedly aimed at preventing attacks on religious pilgrims during major Shiite rituals.
US-backed Iraqi security forces fought fierce battles with a group of radical militants. Officials say the gunmen planned to attack Shiite pilgrims and clerics during upcoming Ashura commemorations.
 |
The US military has also confirmed that a helicopter went down during Sunday's combat operations near Najaf and the two crew members were killed.
A US statement says the incident occurred while the helicopter was "conducting operations to assist Iraqi Security Forces" and that the remains of the crew members were recovered.
The statement gave no further details and did not identify the type of helicopter. Iraqi authorities said the helicopter crashed while providing close air support to Iraqi troops battling militants.
Witnesses say explosions and heavy machine-gun fire were heard since early morning and lasted several hours during the day while US helicopters were circling above.
Editor:Du Xiaodan
