To: mistermj who wrote (210596 ) 12/14/2006 8:39:55 AM From: jttmab Read Replies (1) | Respond to of 281500 HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES CENTRAL COMMAND 7115 South Boundary Boulevard MacDill AFB, Fla. 33621-5101 Phone: (813) 827-5894; FAX: (813) 827-2211; DSN 651-5894 IRAQI GOVERNMENT KICKS OFF OPERATION TOGETHER FORWARD 6/15/2006 06-06-01PP BAGHDAD – Prime Minister Maliki announced June 14, his government's new plan to improve security conditions in Baghdad. During his address, he emphasized that Iraq’s new constitutionally based, representative government is in charge and providing security. He further noted that he will ensure that Iraq’s security forces are professional, impartial, and continue to increase their presence in Baghdad by taking the lead in protecting all Iraqis. Simultaneously, the newly elected Iraqi Ministers of Interior and Defense began executing the prime minister’s plan to secure Baghdad today with the Ministry of Interior in the lead and the Iraqi Army and Coalition Forces in support. Operation Together Forward, or in Arabic – Amaliya Ma’an ila Al-Amam – consists of increased checkpoints, a 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. curfew, and weapons law enforcement. Raids against terrorist cells will also be conducted. “The plan has two objectives. First, humanitarian aid, and second, to provide security,” said Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri Al-Maliki during a press conference June 14. As part of Amaliya Ma’an ila Al-Amam, Iraqi Police and Security Forces, supported by Coalition Forces, will increase patrols and checkpoints in all areas of Baghdad. “All neighborhoods in Baghdad are equal as far as citizens and their rights are concerned,” said Maliki. “We will confront the cells of terrorism everywhere. We don’t have any sectarian agendas. ” Commander of Multi-National Force - Iraq Gen. George Casey said, “We fully support this government and the people of Iraq in their quest for a secure, unified and prosperous nation. Amaliya Ma’an ila Al-Amam is the logical step for Coalition and Iraqi Forces to stand together and stamp out the kidnappings and murders we believe are largely conducted by illegal armed groups.” “Baghdad is home to one-quarter of Iraq’s population and is the economic and political heart of the country. Insurgents and terrorists have targeted Baghdad to incite sectarian violence. Murders and revenge killings must be stopped,” Maliki said. “Illegal armed groups will be prohibited from patrolling the streets or manning checkpoints.” Maliki noted that current security operations are increasingly successful in combating violence and lawlessness, and that because of the untiring efforts of Iraqi security forces, supported by the coalition, all citizens of Baghdad will enjoy significant increases in security . He said that Iraqi citizens from all walks of life are helping secure their own neighborhoods by providing security forces with information necessary to root out lawlessness and evildoers. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT THE COMBINED PRESS INFORMATION CENTER at: cpicpressdesk@iraq.centcom.mil.centcom.mil