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"BASRA, Iraq: Several senior Iraqi officials said that the government might soon deploy Iraqi Army troops to seize control of this city's decrepit but vital port from politically connected militias known more for corruption and inciting terror than their skill in moving freight.
The officials refused to disclose many details Wednesday but appeared to suggest that this entire southern city, whose streets have been increasingly torn by violence as the militias vie for power, would be affected. No specific timetable was given for the move.
"There must be a very strong military presence in Basra to eradicate these militias," said Deputy Prime Minister Barham Salih, who led a delegation of government officials to a conference here to promote investment in the port.
As Iraq's only major gateway to the Gulf, the port is critical for the national economy but is beset with labor problems and is in serious need of dredging and modernization.
Salih declined to give particulars, but when asked if the central government's plan to seize control in Basra involved a troop buildup, he said, "Definitely so." He added that Western troops would also be involved, raising the possibility that the effort could parallel the U.S. troop increase in Baghdad that has been credited in part for reducing violence there."
Iraqi troops expected to reclaim Basra's port - International Herald Tribune
The officials refused to disclose many details Wednesday but appeared to suggest that this entire southern city, whose streets have been increasingly torn by violence as the militias vie for power, would be affected. No specific timetable was given for the move.
"There must be a very strong military presence in Basra to eradicate these militias," said Deputy Prime Minister Barham Salih, who led a delegation of government officials to a conference here to promote investment in the port.
As Iraq's only major gateway to the Gulf, the port is critical for the national economy but is beset with labor problems and is in serious need of dredging and modernization.
Salih declined to give particulars, but when asked if the central government's plan to seize control in Basra involved a troop buildup, he said, "Definitely so." He added that Western troops would also be involved, raising the possibility that the effort could parallel the U.S. troop increase in Baghdad that has been credited in part for reducing violence there."
Iraqi troops expected to reclaim Basra's port - International Herald Tribune