Iraq explodes as Allawi appeals for ceasefire

Protected by about 100 guards, Iraq’s interim Prime Minister Ayad Allawi has visited the war-shattered city of Najaf, calling on Shiite militants to lay down their weapons after days of fierce clashes with US forces.

Nearby, gunfire and explosions echoed through the streets yesterday, marking the fourth day of clashes in the holy city and other Shiite areas of Iraq. Hours later, US helicopter gunships pounded the massive Najaf cemetery, a militant hideout and the scene of much of the fighting, witnesses said.