Existing comment:
Counterinsurgency Operations:
In 2004, several locations considered terrorist strong points became the target of major operations by American forces. Fallujah, An Najaf, and Sadr City all witnessed significant fighting. In these instances, terrorists sought to use the urban landscape to offset the technological superiority of American troops. The resultant battles occurred at short range amid streets, houses, and market places. Terrorists sought to use mosques and holy sites as shields. However, such tactics failed when confronted with the intelligent use of combined arms tactics and aggressive maneuver. Moreover, terrorist actions that caused widespread loss of life, especially among civilians, failed to prevent the first free elections in Iraq or the subsequent crafting the nation's first constitution. The year 2005 opened with promise for the emerging democracy, but it still faced threats from terrorists and sectarian violence. Coalition forces remained focused on providing security, training Iraqi soldiers and police, and rebuilding the nation. |