Opposition Reports Civilian Casualties in Attack by Iraqis
NICOSIA, Cyprus — Iraqi troops backed by tanks and artillery have launched a three-pronged attack in southern Iraqi marshes, killing or wounding hundreds of civilians, an Iran-based Iraqi opposition group said Wednesday.
More than 1,000 families fled their homes when the attack started before dawn Tuesday, but many others were trapped, said the Supreme Council for the Islamic Revolution in Iraq.
In Washington, a U.S. defense official said he could not confirm the report but added that “it would surprise us if that level of action took place.â€
“There have been rumors that some type of military action might occur. He (Iraqi President Saddam Hussein) reinforced that area last month and then moved some forces from there up north,†said the official, who asked not to be identified.
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