Iraqi Citizens, Security Forces Spark Phantom Phoenix Success

WASHINGTON, Jan. 30, 2008 – Operation Phantom Phoenix is succeeding in cracking down on Iraq's enemies, largely because of the Iraqi security forces’ professionalism and the cooperation of the Iraqi people, a senior U.S. military officer said in Baghdad today.

“One of the reasons progress has been made and continues to be made in Iraq is the increasing courage of the Iraqi people as they place themselves in harm’s way to disrupt the terrorist networks and improve security conditions,”

During 2003 and 2004, Iraqis fought behind the multinational forces. In 2006, they worked side by side with the coalition. “Now,” he said, “we are fighting in front of them, and we are taking the leadership in conducting operations.”

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