'An Ignoble Act of Terrorism" Shocks Italy (Berlusconi under pressure)

[kskiska]

Deaths of 16 Troops, Two Civilians in Iraq Puts Pressure on Berlusconi to End Mission

ROME, Nov. 12 -- Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi vowed Wednesday that "no intimidation" would deter Italian forces from their mission in southern Iraq, rejecting calls to bring the troops home following a suicide attack that killed at least 18 Italians and 11 Iraqis .

Italians were shocked and disbelieving as they heard reports throughout the day of the rising death toll in the southern city Nasiriyah, scene of the bloodiest assault on their troops anywhere since World War II. The Italian media had consistently reported that the troops were winning the trust of the local population in Iraq.

(snip)

The deaths brought serious political pressure to bear on Berlusconi, who has closely supported the United States in Iraq despite widespread public opposition. Italian forces did not take part in the invasion but were quickly dispatched to help secure the country after the capture of Baghdad.

Addressing a special session of the Senate, Berlusconi called on Italians of all political beliefs to unite in condolence for the victims and in determination to continue supporting the approximately 2,300 Italian troops who are in Iraq on what the government calls a humanitarian mission.

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http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A31175-2003Nov12.html

[newyorican]

1. Soooo, how long has this govt. lasted...

Time to do what Italians always do...change the govt. :thumbsup:

[DemBones DemBones]

4. TOO long, IMO, and definitely time for an election in Italy. n/t

[Kinkistyle]

2. Welcome to the party, Il Duce.

You didn't think they were going to let you off the hook did you?

[Mal]

3. If you're helping the US,

you have to expect to be attacked.