Despite announcement of '\'truce'\' deal - at least nine Iraqi fighters killed, two US marines injured in Fallujah clash

Published April 21st, 2004 - 03:00 GMT

At least nine Iraqi resistance fighters were killed and two US marines injured in fire exchanges in Fallujah Wednesday, according to a US military spokesman.

Some 35 Iraqi resistance fighters attacked U.S. Marines in northern Fallujah just after daybreak Wednesday, setting off a heavy gunbattle, the military said.

The attack started with a massive barrage of rocket-propelled grenades and small arms fire. Blasts were heard throughout the city, The AP reported.

The attack came following Monday's announcement of an agreement aimed at ending hostilities in this city. U.S. officials have warned that if Iraqis don't comply with a call by city leaders to disarm, Marines may launch an all-out assault to take the city.

Late Tuesday. United States Defence Secretary Donald Rumsfeld said no concessions will be made to Sunni fighters besieged by American marines in the Iraqi city of Fallujah.

"The current state of affairs in Fallujah will not continue indefinitely," he said. "Thugs and assassins and former Saddam henchmen will not be allowed to carve out portions of that city and to oppose peace and freedom." (Albawaba.com)