Iraq al Qaeda branch promises new violence

Dec. 14, 2005: In an attempt to disrupt the Iraqi elections, the insurgent group called "al qaeda in the land of the two rivers" has declared new operations in Baghdad, Anbar, Mosul and other locations throughout Iraq polling stations.

Reported on a pro-jihad website, the statement released by Al Qaeda in Iraq a few hours ago was quoted as saying:

"A major AQ offensive is under way. Mujahideen from all AQ military brigades have begun a new expedition aimed at spoiling the "Democratic-Kufr" marriage. After completing preparation ... they began their offensive action in Baghdad, the seat of the Caliphate, and its surrounding areas of Anbar, Mosul, Diali, and Salah Al-Deen."

Iraqi citizens are set to partake in a historic vote in a few hours. Previous statements that islamists would not target ordinary Iraqi's seem to be contradicted by this recent statement.