Iraqi operation kills 10 al-Qaeda fighters

Iraq’s Defence Ministry has announced the termination of successful security and military forces operations in Wadi Horan, following the deaths of 10 suspected al-Qaeda members and the detainment of eight others. The operation reportedly targeted a training camp belonging to al-Qaeda in Iraq [AQI]. Four hundred explosive units were apprehended during the assault. Spokesperson for Iraq’s Defence Minister, Mohamed el-Askary, announced in a press statement that the operation targeted al-Qaeda elements suspected of planning attacks on demonstrators in the country, as anti-government protests against Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki continue. Anbar province became one of AQI’s principal sanctuaries following the 2003 war and occupation, witnessing repeat attacks on security forces as well as civilians.