Largest Iraq Air Assault Since '03 Begins

[PhilipShore]

ABC News/AP
Largest Iraq Air Assault Since '03 Begins
Mar 16, 2006

http://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory?id=1732727

BAGHDAD, Iraq Mar 16, 2006 (AP)— The United States on Thursday launched what was termed the largest air assault since the U.S.-led invasion, targeting insurgent strongholds north of the capital, the military said.

The U.S. military said Iraqi troops also were involved in the operation aimed at clearing a "suspected insurgent operating area northeast of Samarra."

"More than 1,500 Iraqi and Coalition troops, over 200 tactical vehicles, and more than 50 aircraft participated in the operation," the military statement said.

Samarra is 60 miles north of Baghdad.