GI Special 4K1: General Strike Wins Big - November 1, 2006

Thomas F. Barton

U.S. and Iraqi checkpoints around Sadr City and other parts of Baghdad were being opened Tuesday with vehicles passing through unchecked, following an order by Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki, the U.S. military said.Residents danced in the streets with jubilation Tuesday after U.S. and Iraqi troops ended a weeklong security cordon of Baghdad’s Shiite Sadr City district. Men and children gave out chocolates and sodas as the troops packed up and drove away.Motorists stretched their arms out to flash "V" for victory signs. Some celebrants carried pistols or assault rifles. Some wore black shirts and camouflage pants, hallmark choices of Mahdi Army militiamen.

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