BAGHDAD: US forces stepped deeper yesterday into the Iraqi government's fight to cripple Shi'ite militias, launching air strikes in the southern city of Basra and firing a Hellfire missile in the main Shi'ite stronghold in Baghdad.
The American support occurred as Iraqi troops struggled against strong resistance in Basra and retaliation elsewhere in Shi'ite areas - including more salvos of rockets or mortars into the Green Zone in Baghdad.
More than 180 people have been killed since the clashes broke out four days ago.
The southern city of Nasiriyah also saw fierce battles yesterday with local medical officials reporting 36 deaths.