Iraq: Mehdi Army says it may end attacks

BAGHDAD, April 19 (UPI) -- The Mehdi Army's political cartel said it would discuss halting fighting in Sadr City near Baghdad as its fighters allegedly planted bombs on area highways.

Disguised as city workers wearing bright yellow and orange vests, three Mehdi Army fighters unearthed the ground on a main road in Sadr City Friday as cautious motorists drove by them and over wires crossing the road, The New York Times reported.

The homemade explosives reportedly were being put in place within a mile from where American and Iraqi soldiers were stationed. It is reported that severe clashes took place nearby late Friday.

Mixed signals from cleric Moqtada Sadr's Mehdi Army, which can frequently be both threatening and appeasing at the same time, reportedly have become a trademark of the group.

The messages seem to be preparing to take on the Iraqi government with violence and votes in provincial elections in the fall, the Times reported.