A Soldiers Blog

Insurgent Iraqis Vow to Take Over Cities

RAMADI, Iraq - A coalition of insurgent groups has vowed to take over cities vacated by U.S. troops, and warned of "harsh consequences" for Iraqis who resist, according to pamphlets circulating in this hotbed of anti-American resistance.

The pamphlets, signed by Muhammad's Army and other insurgent groups, began appearing Saturday in Ramadi and nearby Fallujah - both part of the dangerous Sunni Triangle region.

"America is getting ready to withdraw its forces from our country with its tail between its legs ... pressured by rockets and explosive devices," the statement said.

The pamphlets, replete with Quranic verses and threats of "harsh consequences" for anyone firing on the insurgency's fighters, said Iraqis who did not collaborate with the Americans would be allowed to form city councils once U.S. forces are gone. Every council will name candidates to run in general elections, the pamphlet said.

It appeared highly unlikely that U.S. forces would allow events envisioned in the pamphlets or that American troops would be drawn down to such low levels while the insurgency remain powerful.

Once the Americans withdraw, a three-day curfew will be imposed in "liberated areas," the statement said, adding that hospitals and humanitarian organizations would be excluded.

Despite the threats, U.S. officials have expressed confidence Iraqi police will be able to handle the security situation.

Muhammad's Army appears to be an umbrella group for former Iraqi intelligence agents, army and security officials, and Baath Party members, U.S. officials say. It has been linked to several attacks against coalition forces.

The U.S. Army has said it will gradually reduce its presence in Iraqi cities and hand over control to Iraqi security forces. The Army has so far given a detailed withdrawal plan only for the capital, Baghdad, which it envisages to be virtually free of U.S. troops by May.

While pulling back from densely populated areas such as Baghdad, U.S. forces will remain nearby and ready to rapidly respond to civil disorder, U.S. officials have said.

U.S. commanders say the security situation is improving and the number of insurgent attacks including roadside bombings and hit-and-run firing are coming down. Still, the monthly U.S. casualty rate has remained steady with 251 soldiers dying in hostile action since May 1.