Iraq preparing to handle Baghdad security

BAGHDAD, March 6 (UPI) -- Iraq will take over security duties in Baghdad at the end of 2008, Brig. Gen. Abdul Karim Khalaf, the interior operations chief, confirmed Thursday.

Gen. Kevin Bergner, a coalition spokesman, said the multi-national forces would assume a backup role in the Iraqi capital at that time.

Meanwhile, preparation and training for the shift in responsibility is being carried out in Basmaya camp in Waset Province. Alsumaria reported.