March 17, 2003
Release Number: 03-03-25

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


COALITION FORCES DROP LEAFLETS IN SOUTHERN IRAQ

SOUTHWEST ASIA - Coalition aircraft dropped 360,000 informational leaflets over southern Iraq today.

Coalition aircraft dropped the leaflets between 8:15 and 9:30 a.m. EST over the southern Iraqi cities of An Nasiriyah, located approximately 170 southeast of Baghdad; Rumaylah, located approximately 225 southeast of Baghdad; and Al Basrah, located approximately 250 miles southeast of Baghdad.

The Coalition dropped six types of leaflets. Three of the leaflets contained several references for Iraqis to tune to radio frequencies where Coalition forces are broadcasting information about United Nations Security Council Resolution 1441, United Nations weapons inspectors in Iraq, Iraqi President Saddam Hussein's reign and other topics. Another type of leaflet warned Iraqi troops not to use weapons of mass destruction, emphasizing that "unit commanders will be held accountable for non-compliance." One leaflet warned Iraqi troops that the Coalition will destroy any viable military targets and does not wish to destroy any Iraqi landmarks, and that the "Coalition forces do not wish to harm the noble people of Iraq. To ensure your safety, avoid areas occupied by military personnel." One more leaflet type told Iraqi troops "not risk their life and the life of their comrades," and to "leave now, go home, and learn, grow, prosper."

To see a picture of the leaflets dropped today, along with radio scripts broadcast recently, follow the links below.

IZD-016

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