Operation Sword update 

Iraq Security Forces and approximately 1,000 Marines, sailors and soldiers from Regimental Combat Team-2, comprised of elements of 2nd Marine Regiment and 2nd Brigade Combat Team of the 2nd Marine Division continue security operations in the Al Anbar province.Operation Saif (Sword), which began early this morning, is aimed at clearing the area along the Euphrates River between the cities of Haditha and Hit of insurgents and foreign fighters. The 1st Company of the 2nd Battalion, 4th Brigade, 1st Division, comprised of approximately 100 Iraqi soldiers, is fully integrated with Marine and Army units in Operation Saif. The company has attached its platoons to Marine and U.S. Army infantry companies. The majority of the units are conducting cordon and knock operations in and around Hit (population 120,000) approximately 100 miles northwest of Baghdad. Several men were detained for questioning in connection to large weapons cache sites discovered by ISF, Marines and soldiers throughout the city.No major battles or air strikes have occurred during the course of the day’s operations, nor has the city's basic utilities and access to medical treatment been disrupted.Operations to rid the city of insurgents and foreign fighters who intimidate the populace continue.