NPR: Bomb Kills Sheik Helping U.S. in Anbar Province

Bomb Kills Sheik Helping U.S. in Anbar Province

Sheik Abdul-Sattar Abu Risha

Sabah Arar/AFP/Getty Images

Sheik Abdul-Sattar Abu Risha was killed by a roadside bomb in Iraq today — a blow that has the potential to set back some of the gains the U.S. has made in Anbar province.

Abu Risha was the leader of the Anbar Salvation Council, the group of Sunni clans backing U.S. troops in the province. He was among a group of tribal leaders that met with President Bush at al-Asad Air Base earlier this month.

The Associated Press reports that no group has claimed responsibility, but suspicion has fallen on al-Qaida in Iraq. U.S. officials say the terrorist group has suffered serious setbacks because of Abu Risha and the movement referred to as the "Anbar Awakening." It also appears that an act of generosity may have led to his death. A Ramadi police officer said Abu Risha had received a group of poor people at his home earlier in the day to mark the beginning of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. The policeman said authorities believe one of the visitors planted the bomb.

Gen. David Petraeus told The Washington Post that Abu Risha's death is a tragic loss. "It's a terrible loss for Anbar province and all of Iraq. It shows how significant his importance was and it shows al-Qaeda in Iraq remains a very dangerous and barbaric enemy."

2:04 PM ET | 09-13-2007 | permalink

Comments (Send a comment)

What is the American president's responsibility for security to such sheiks; who is/are responsible for pre and post follow up of such important adversaries in the U.S. It seems an investigation of OUR intelligence resources needs to be monitored, this is a shame, as such leaders aspire to not only achieve their political objectives, but that of our worlds, i.e., resolution to this quagmuire.

Sent by MIchael Madison | 4:11 PM ET | 09-13-2007

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