Detainee Release Ceremony Gets Visit from Human Rights Minister for Iraq

As reported by Multi National Forces-Iraq, during a recent morning ceremony at Camp Victory, located just out side of Baghdad, Iraq, over 300 military detainees were released as part of an ongoing effort by Coalition forces to process those being detained during the war on terrorism. Wijdan Mikhail Salim, the Minister of Human Rights in Baghdad, stated that,"We work to raise Iraq and the name of our country high for our civilization, our common history, the future of our children, and for the sake of every Iraqi citizen to have glory and pride. Salim served as an official representative at the ceremony.

Applauding the efforts of the Iraqi Government and Coalition forces, Salim indicated this was an enormous step towards fostering goodwill and reconciliation in the country. There has been an overall increase in the monthly numbers of individuals released by Coalition forces once they have been found to no longer be a threat to the security in Baghdad or Iraq. According to officials, about half of the detainees were released after the ceremony with the other half slated for release in the near future.

The process leading up to release included a multi stage process for the detainees at the ceremony. Included in the process was an appearance at a review board at which time each individual has the opportunity to address his or her case personally. A pledge was also involved, before an Iraqi judge, swearing to "maintain peace and good conduct." As part of their detainment, individuals were give the opportunity to volunteer for programs including basic education, religion, and a variety of vocational and work related training programs.