Iraqi prime minister hails security transfer

BRITISH and Australian forces yesterday handed over security responsibility for the relatively peaceful Muthanna province to Iraqi forces in the first such transfer of an entire province.

Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki hailed the security transfer as an important step toward the goal of full Iraqi responsibility for all 18 provinces by the end of next year.

However, at least 24 people were killed in attacks nationwide, illustrating the security challenge faced by the country.