Fed: Coalition forces vow not to give in to terrorist demands

AAP General News (Australia)
08-05-2004
Fed: Coalition forces vow not to give in to terrorist demands

Australia and fellow members of the multinational force in Iraq have vowed not to bow
to terrorist threats to execute hostages, saying giving in will lead to more atrocities.

Force members have released a joint statement condemning the kidnapping and murder
of innocent civilians by terrorists.

The signatories say they'll ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice.

The statement's been issued concurrently in the capitals of the coalition countries.

Iraqi militants have taken more than 70 foreigners hostage, murdering several of them,
in an attempt to force foreign troops out of the country.

Last month, the Philippines pulled its small peacekeeping contingent out a week early
to save the life of a kidnapped truck driver, ANGELO DE LA CRUZ.

The father of eight was released unharmed, but several more hostages from other countries
were seized within days.

AAP mfh/sb/gjr/lm

KEYWORD: TERROR AUST (CANBERRA)

2004 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.