NEWS RELEASE
HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES CENTRAL COMMAND
7115 South Boundary Boulevard
MacDill AFB, Fla. 33621-5101
Phone: (813) 827-5894; FAX: (813) 827-2211; DSN 651-5894
December 24, 2004
Release Number: 04-12-49
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
IRAQIS, US FORCES SUPPORT RESIDENTS' RETURN TO FALLUJAH
FALLUJAH, Iraq - More than 900 residents returned to their homes in the Al Andalus district of the city under the supervision of Iraqi and US forces on Dec. 23.
The interim Iraqi government plans to open Fallujah in phases, by districts, as part of a safe, efficient resettlement plan and to ensure sufficient support is in place. The Iraqi and US forces are providing security in and around the city.
Residents gained entry into three entry control points of the city after producing proof of residency in Al Andalus. The interim Iraqi government provided buses at the entry control points for families, which enabled easy access into the city. The entry control points were open from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Traffic was slow, but increased throughout the day, bringing the total of vehicles entering the city to 165. Additionally, 100 contractors and workers entered the city for reconstruction efforts. Only one person was detained and 16 were turned away due to not providing proof of residency.
To ensure safety of residents, a citywide curfew, imposed by the interim Iraqi government, is in effect from 6 p.m. - 6 a.m. daily. Residents have been instructed to stay inside their homes during curfew hours, unless a medical emergency arises. The Fallujah General and Jordanian Hospitals are open and prepared to receive patients.
Humanitarian efforts are also ongoing in the city as two humanitarian sites are established and stocked with food and water, and are prepared to offer limited medical care.
The I Marine Expeditionary Force and Iraqi Security Forces are prepared to support the interim Iraqi government's district-by-district return of citizens to Fallujah.
For more information, please contact the I MEF Media Team at imefmediateam@imefdm.usmc.mil.
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