By NNN-KUNA
Baghdad : The Multi-National Forces (MNF) have accused Iran of backing up gunmen in the southern city of Basra.
Major-General Kevin Bergner, Multi-National Forces-Iraq spokesman, said in a press statement Wednesday that the situation in Baghdad was under control and denied that supporters of the Sadr bloc were targeted in operations conducted in Baghdad and Basra.
“Enforcement of the rule of law in Basra is not a battle against Jaysh Al-Mahdi, as some have suggested. Nor is it a proxy war between the US and Iran as others have purported. It is the government of Iraq taking responsible action necessary to deal with criminals on the streets with weapons,” said Bergner.
He said that outlaw groups were the main concern for security in Basra, adding that Iran’s influence on the agenda of these groups was undeniable.
The continuous operations in Basra city reflected the increasing capabilities and readiness of the Iraqi Security Forces, said the MNF spokesman, adding that operations would not stop until all outlaw groups surrender.