LOC09:59
06:59 GMT
BAGHDAD, Aug 9 (KUNA) -- A US soldier was killed and four others were
wounded when an explosive device was detonated near their patrol in the
western section of the Iraqi capital, the Multi-National Force (MNF) said
Thursday.
In a statement, the MNF said the patrol was targeted on Tuesday and gave no
further details on the bombing.
Units operating in this area of Baghdad continue to conduct targeted raids
and clearing operations in order to disrupt insurgent and militia elements
operating in this section of the Iraqi capital, it said.
"Destroying these cells reduces overall sectarian violence and helps sets
the conditions for the improvement of essential services, economic growth and
aids in the transition of Iraqi-led security operations," the statement added.
With this, the total number of US soldiers killed since the war in Iraq
began in March 2003 stands at 3,681, including 22 killed this month.
Last month, 80 US soldiers were killed, making July the month with the
lowest death toll among American soldiers this year. (end)
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