Crackdown Coming...

"The U.S. military poured troops into Diyala last year to drive out Sunni militants who had made Baqubah the capital of their self-declared caliphate. But even though the militants no longer control large swaths of territory there, it has proved difficult to dislodge them from the lush region of orchards and waterways stretching from Baghdad to the Iranian border."

Alexandra Zavis, Los Angeles Times Staff Writer

Evening...

The info hounds were busy today. A number of articles were shared but two caught my eye...maybe you have seen them?

Iraqi forces to launch crackdown on al-Qaeda in Diyala province

Hmmm....why would the Iraqi PM announce this operation? Which part of OPSEC don't the Iraqi's understand? Very odd to say the least...

Two US soldiers killed in ambush near Baghdad

If the reporting in these articles is even remotely true, the bread basket may once again become the center of attention in Iraq. As we know, the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment has spent their share of time in this region and paid a heavy price to secure the freedom of many...what will the future hold for an area that is normally described as "restive?"

I will be watching the news to see if the Iraqi Army (IA) steps forward and takes the lead on any/all operations in the Diyala province. The IA needs to continue the trend we have seen in Baghdad, Basra, Sadr City, Amarah and against al Qaeda in Mosul. The more they can stand on their own two combat feet, shoulder the load and be the first ones in the door...the less our warriors will be needed.

That's my view...what's yours?

Chris, I love you buddy!

Be safe!

v/r,
- Collabman