BAGHDAD (AP) — A government spokesman says Iraq will take legal action to ensure justice for the families of 24 unarmed Iraqi civilians killed in a U.S. raid in Haditha seven years ago.
Thursday’s comments reflect the anger in Haditha after the lone U.S. Marine convicted in the killings escaped jail time after defending his order to raid homes in the former Sunni insurgent stronghold as a necessary act. Staff Sgt. Frank Wuterich apologized for the loss of life, but said his squad did not behaved badly or dishonorably.
Ali al-Moussawi says Iraq will “follow up all legal procedures and judiciary measures” to seek justice in the case, which he called a “big crime against innocent civilians.” He did not give specifics and the Iraqi Justice Ministry declined to comment.
