Since the last U.S. combat brigade pulled out of Iraq last week, insurgents have stepped up their deadly attacks. The increased violence is raising the question: Can Iraqis handle security on their own?
For many American soldiers, the U.S. troop drawdown in Iraq means relief and reuniting with loved ones.
"It's been about six, seven months. I haven't seen my family, and it just feels great," U.S. Army Spc. Bernard Martin, Jr. said.
In Iraq, it's a different story. August is the deadliest month for Iraqi security forces in two years. Insurgents have killed six members of a pro-government militia Thursday. And on Wednesday, attacks killed 56 people, destroying a police station and family homes.
Most of the targets are Iraqi police and military, along with local government leaders. The insurgents targeted institutions key to the day-to-day running and stability of the country.
The attacks came after the U.S. declared the number of U.S. troops had fallen to fewer than 50,000 which is the lowest level since the war began in 2003.
No one has claimed responsibility for the the attacks yet.
Source: CBN New | Mark Martin
