Dreier Statement on Death of Zarqawi, Completion of Iraqi Cabinet

June 8, 2006

WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman David Dreier (R-San Dimas,CA), Chairman of the House Rules Committee, made the following statement today regarding the death of Abu Musab al-Zarqawi at the hands of Coalition forces, as well as the completion of the Iraqi Cabinet:

"Today’s news is a victory for freedom loving people everywhere, particularly in Iraq. Zarqawi was actively seeking to derail the democratically elected Iraqi government through horrific violence. Unfortunately, his actions over the past three years have taken a great toll. However, our troops, and their Iraqi counterparts, never ceased their efforts to bring him to justice. Today, their determination has paid off and they deserve tremendous credit. Iraq, and the world, will be safer for their efforts.

"Also today, we learned that Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri Kamal al-Maliki has completed his cabinet, filling the critical posts of Interior and Defense. This is more good news on an already good news day.

"As we applaud this tremendous progress, we must keep in mind that these are just battles in the long war against terror. Challenges remain and the violence will not end today. Yet it cannot be denied that real progress is being made in this struggle against those who use violence and hate as their weapons against the spread of freedom and democracy. We must remain committed to victory."