Drone_pilot
16-07-04, 12:14
The Philippine government says the commander of the country's military force in Iraq will leave the country on Friday, along with 10 other members.
Foreign Secretary Delia Albert said the remainder of the Philippine contingent would be withdrawn "shortly".
The move is part of efforts to secure the release of a Philippine hostage.
Iraqi kidnappers have threatened to behead Angelo de la Cruz if Philippine troops do not leave the country by the end of this month.
Manila said earlier this week that it would comply with the kidnappers' demand and withdraw its 51 troops - although no timescale was specified until Friday's announcement.
As expected, the decision has incurred the wrath of the US and other allies in the war on terrorism.
American officials said the decision to pull out sent the wrong signal to the militants, and Australian Prime Minister John Howard said it would make the situation in Iraq even more dangerous.
BBC Read More (http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/middle_east/3898875.stm)
Foreign Secretary Delia Albert said the remainder of the Philippine contingent would be withdrawn "shortly".
The move is part of efforts to secure the release of a Philippine hostage.
Iraqi kidnappers have threatened to behead Angelo de la Cruz if Philippine troops do not leave the country by the end of this month.
Manila said earlier this week that it would comply with the kidnappers' demand and withdraw its 51 troops - although no timescale was specified until Friday's announcement.
As expected, the decision has incurred the wrath of the US and other allies in the war on terrorism.
American officials said the decision to pull out sent the wrong signal to the militants, and Australian Prime Minister John Howard said it would make the situation in Iraq even more dangerous.
BBC Read More (http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/middle_east/3898875.stm)