For Immediate Release:

Thursday, June 8, 2006

"The death of terrorist al-Zarqawi is a testament to the skill and determination of our brave men and women in uniform and the diligence of our intelligence community.

"This is a good day for our military and also for the people of Iraq, who have suffered under a deadly insurgency.

"With sectarian violence and other destabilizing factors threatening security in Iraq, there is still much work to do as we move forward. But with the death of al-Zarqawi, and the recent appointment of ministers of defense, interior and national security, this is a time to recognize the accomplishments of our military and the hope for a better future for all of Iraq."