- U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ-08) today released the following statement on the elimination of Abu Musab al-Zarqawi in Iraq.

"I salute our brave troops for once again proving their mettle in Iraq.  The elimination of al Zarqawi is a landmark accomplishment for our soldiers, but it is also a grim reminder of the deadly terrorist network that has developed in Iraq.

The death of al Zarqawi is an encouraging sign of increased coordination between American troops Iraqi security forces.  I am further encouraged by the Iraqi government today naming a Defense and Interior Minister to truly confront security challenges.  I will not forget President Bush's pledge for American forces to stand down when Iraqi forces stands up.  Today is a momentous day for Iraqi security that I hope will signal the beginning of a redeployment of American troops in Iraq."

Pascrell is a cosponsor of Rep. John Murtha's (D-PA-12) resolution to redeploy American troops fighting in Iraq at the earliest predictable date.

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