FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 2, 2004

CONTACT
Karbala Province
Andrew Dickson
andrewdicksontaipei@mac.com

EMERGENCY RESPONSE FUNDS FOR KARBALA

Karbala, Iraq. The Coalition Provisional Authority responded to the attacks on innocent Iraqi citizens in Karbala today by allocating $100,000 to assist immediately with emergency services and injuries.

The terrorist attacks were made against innocent Iraqi men, women, and children. The terrorists are trying to strike discord in the holy city of Karbala and against stability in Iraq. The terrorists are attempting to undermine Iraq as the country moves toward democracy and full sovereignty.

Mr. John Berry, CPA Governorate Coordinator for Karbala Province, has monitored today's terrible events closely with the Iraqi Police and Coalition military commanders. He stated:

"As Ambassador Bremer's representative in Karbala, I would like to express my deepest condolences to the people of this holy city, to the families of those who were murdered and to those who were injured. I am deeply saddened that terrorists have marred the solemn commemoration of the death of al-Imam al-Hussein. CPA will work closely with the people of Karbala and local police to apprehend the perpetrators of this terrible crime."

CPA stands with the people of Karbala, and we will continue to assist them as they build a better life in a new democratic Iraq.