    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2003, Book II)]
    [August 29, 2003]
    [Page 1074]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    [[Page 1074]]

    Statement on the Bombing in Najaf, Iraq
    August 29, 2003

        I strongly condemn the bombing today outside the Imam Ali mosque in
    Najaf, Iraq, that killed dozens of innocent Iraqis. This vicious act of
    terrorism was aimed at Ayatollah Mohammed Baqir al-Hakim, at one of Shi'a Islam's holiest sites, and at
    the hopes of the people of Iraq for freedom, peace, and reconciliation.
        I extend my deepest condolences to the families of the victims and
    my hopes for a quick recovery for the injured. I have instructed
    American officials in Iraq to work closely with Iraqi security officials
    and the Governing Council to determine who committed this terrible
    attack and bring them to justice. I also extend my sympathies to all
    Iraqis and to Shi'a Muslims around the world.
        Ayatollah Hakim had been jailed
    and tortured for his religious beliefs by the regime of Saddam
    Hussein, and he had spent many years in
    exile. He returned to his native land this year after its liberation.
    His murder today, along with the murder of many innocent men and women
    gathered for prayer, demonstrates the cruelty and desperation of the
    enemies of the Iraqi people.
        The forces of terror must and will be defeated. The united efforts
    of Iraqis and the international community will succeed in achieving
    peace and freedom.