Command Statement on Mosul attack

22 killed in Explosion at FOB Marez Near Mosul

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Baghdad, Iraq -- Twenty-two people, including 13 U.S. service members, five U.S. civilians, three Iraqi National Guard members, and one unidentified non-US person, were killed in a terrorist attack on the Multi-National Force-Iraq shortly after noon yesterday in the vicinity of Mosul.

An additional 69 people were injured in the attack, 44 of them members of the U.S. military. Seven are U.S contractors, five are U.S. Defense Department civilians, two are Iraqi civilians, 10 are contractors of other nationalities, and one is of unknown nationality and occupation. Twenty-five of the wounded were treated and returned to duty the same day.

The attack, an explosion, occurred at a dining facility at Forward Operating Base Marez.

A preliminary investigation indicates that the explosion at the U.S. Army dining facility at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Marez in Mosul on Tuesday was likely caused by an improvised explosive device worn by a suicide attacker.

Evidence found at the site includes components normally associated with improvised explosive devices. There was no physical evidence of a rocket, mortar, or other type of indirect fire weapon.

As a result of these findings, LTG Thomas F. Metz, Commanding General, Multi-National Corps - Iraq, has ordered a full investigation to determine the complete facts and circumstances surrounding the attack.

“We deeply regret the injuries and loss of life among our fellow members of the armed forces, our civilian contractors and members of the Iraqi security forces who have committed themselves to helping 25 million Iraqis build a better future,” said Gen. George W. Casey, Jr., Commanding General, Multi-National Force-Iraq. “Our prayers and condolences go out to the loved ones and families of these brave men and women.”

“We will determine exactly what happened at FOB Marez and continue to work to ensure the safety and security of our people and our operating bases.”

Military officials have expected increased violence as insurgents try to intimidate the Iraqi people and disrupt January elections.

“Insurgents are desperate to create the perception that elections are not possible,” said General Casey. “We will not allow terrorist violence to stop progress toward elections.”

Updated information establishes that 22 people were killed in the attack, including 14 U.S. service members, four U.S. civilian contractors, three members of the Iraqi Security Forces, and one unidentified non-US person.

The names of the dead are being withheld pending notification of next of kin.

Release #0412022i Release #0412023a
Source: Multi-National Force - Iraq and Multi-National Corps - Iraq
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