Whitfield Statement on the Death of Abu Musab al-Zarqawi | News | Congressman Ed Whitfield

News | Congressman Ed Whitfield | United States Representative

Whitfield Statement on the Death of Abu Musab al-Zarqawi June 8, 2006 WASHINGTON - U.S. Rep. Ed Whitfield issued the following statement on the death of Abu Musab al-Zarqawi:

"Zarqawi was the leader of Al-Qaeda in Iraq and his death is a strategic victory in our efforts to defeat and dismantle terrorist networks. Zarqawi was responsible for the indiscriminate murder of American soldiers, American civilians, and thousands of innocent Iraqis. The cooperation of the U.S. and Iraqi governments sends a strong signal to terrorists around the world that sovereign, peaceful nations will not be intimidated by acts of terrorist violence. America and the world are safer now that this threat has been removed."

"The men and women of our military deserve our praise and thanks for their efforts to eliminate this and other terrorist threats before they reach our shores. More than 20,000 soldiers from Ft. Campbell are currently deployed overseas in defense of our country, and I will continue to provide my unwavering support for their mission and look forward to their safe return home."

"I congratulate Iraqi Prime Minister Malaki and thank him for his governments help in achieving this important victory. In addition, todays appointment of Iraqs new Ministers of Defense and the Interior are positive developments towards establishing peace and security in the region."

"Zarqawi's death will not mean the end of violence in Iraq, and we should expect terrorist attacks to continue without him. However, his death is a clear victory in the war on terrorism. While the days ahead will require our patience and resolve, we remain committed to supporting the efforts of the Iraqi people and our coalition partners in building a stable and secure government in Iraq."

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