Iraqis demand clerics’ release

By: Hamoud Kufi

BAGHDAD, Iraq: Thousands of Iraqis on Wednesday marched through the streets of Baghdad demanding the release of two of their clerics detained by US-led coalition forces.

Moayed Al-Khazraji and Jalil Al-Shomari were arrested Monday as they led a 12-member delegation to negotiate with the Americans in the municipal council building. Wednesday, US officials held talks with a group of clerics but failed to resolve the standoff.

During the demonstration, the protestors chanted slogans vowing daily protests until the clerics are freed while US helicopters hovered overhead.

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