Iraqi-U.S. operation targets al-Qaida

BAGHDAD, Jan. 8 (UPI) -- The commander of Multi-National Corps-Iraq announced the launch of Operation Phantom Phoenix, a joint Iraq-Coalition operation to target al-Qaida.

Lt. Gen. Ray Odierno outlined the operation in a MNC-Iraq news release Tuesday, calling it a division and brigade-level operation targeting al-Qaida in Iraq and other militant operations.

The operational intent is to take advantage of the lull in violence in Iraq to weaken al-Qaida and other militant outposts and command and control elements using lethal and non-lethal force.

"Working closely with the Iraqi Security Forces, we will continue to pursue al-Qaida and other extremists wherever they attempt to take sanctuary," Odierno said. "Iraqi citizens continue to reject extremist elements. We are determined not to allow these brutal elements to have respite anywhere in Iraq."

Odierno said Iraqis continued to be proactive in routing extremists from the communities.

"We are continuing to see citizens joining Concerned Local Citizen groups, provide tips for criminals and weapons and ammunition caches, and cooperate with the Government of Iraq. This is another step aimed at providing Iraqis long-term sustainable security," Odierno said.