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JIHADISTS THREATEN EL SALVADOR OVER TROOPS IN IRAQ.

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Unique among countries of the region having sent troops to Iraq in response to the US struggle to mount a coalition, El Salvador renewed its commitment to the project with plans to send another 380 soldiers into the fray. Nicaragua, Honduras, and the Dominican Republic, all followed Spain in retreat from the war upon completion of their initial agreements (see NotiCen, 2004-04-22).

In his bid to show that El Salvador deserves its reputation as Latin America's most pro-US country, President Tony Saca has opened the door to attacks from the opposition FMLN, the popular sector, and perhaps international Islamic opposition.

Saca began signaling his intentions in early July, with the comment at an informal meeting with reporters, "I'm seriously thinking of giving approval for sending this third contingent to Iraq."

The stated intention at that time was to send the troops to Najaf, considered a safe place to keep the soldiers out of harm's way, but which since has exploded into serious warfare. "I have asked the minister [of defense, Otto Romero] several things, that more (military) people go for civil operations, that we look for a more tranquil city, knowing that we are in a country that is still very dangerous." He said it seemed illogical not to leave forces there just at the point where the Iraqi government was beginning to establish itself and enforce law.

Seeking more secure environs

Romero agreed with the reasoning: "The high command has discussed it, and we have come to the conclusion that a third contingent is necessary, both for the international situation, and for Iraq," he said. The only change...

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