Iraq leader issues plea for help

Iraq’s interim prime minister appealed today for help in improving the country’s security situation, asking other countries to bolster their support to Iraq’s beleaguered forces.

Iyad Allawi told a news conference that all of Iraq’s resources will be directed to fight terrorism but that such forces need help, particularly in terms of equipment.

“Until our forces are fully capable, we will continue to need support from our friends,” said Allawi.

“We hope that additional international support will be forthcoming in response to the UN Security Council resolution 1346, also from Arabic and Islamic nations.”