Terrorist Leader Al-Zarqawi Killed

Last night, the U.S. military conducted an air strike north of Baghdad that killed Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, the mastermind behind hundreds of bombings, kidnappings and beheadings in Iraq. I am grateful to the U.S. military for its impressive leadership and diligence in defeating Iraq's most violent terrorist - Abu Musab al-Zarqawi. This is a significant development in the fight against terror, and one that brings us closer to our goal of a peaceful and free Iraq.

Although this operation was a success, we must not lose sight of the great challenges that lie ahead. Daily violence continues to erupt in the streets of Iraq, violent factions refuse to coexist, infrastructure lies in disrepair, and a new government struggles to maintain order. These challenges will take time, but I am confident the Iraqi people and our men and women in uniform will prevail.

Let us take this opportunity to thank the brave military heroes who carried out this important mission. They are thousands of miles away from their families, yet continue to accomplish amazing acts that remind us of why the U.S. military is the most powerful force in the world. We must always remember our men and women in uniform during these dangerous times, and pray they return home safely after providing the people of Iraq with a secure and peaceful nation.