Iraq: Reports of kidnapped Marines false

Oct. 3, 2005
Release A051003c
Reports of kidnapped Marines false
BAGHDAD, Iraq – Al Qaeda in Iraq claims that two U.S. Marines were kidnapped in western Iraq Oct. 2 are patently false. All Marines and service members attached to Multi-National Force-West are accounted for.

This latest claim by the terror organization continues a pattern of deceit. This hoax demonstrates the organization’s willingness and desire to use the media to propagate their lies.

DoD adds… The kidnapping claim came during Operation Kabda Bil Hadid, or "Iron Fist," in the western part of the country near the Syrian border. About 1,000 Marines, soldiers and sailors from Regimental Combat Team 2 began engaging al Qaeda in Iraq terrorists west of Sadah Oct. 1.

Iron Fist, part of the larger Operation Sayaid, or "Hunter," is designed to keep al Qaeda terrorists in Iraq from operating freely in the Euphrates River Valley. It is also meant to prevent terrorists from influencing the local population through murder and intimidation, officials said.
(Courtesy of Multi-National Force- Iraq and DoD)