IRAQ

• Document Type: CREST
• Collection: General CIA Records
• Document Number (FOIA) /ESDN (CREST): CIA-RDP79R00890A001200030029-0
• Release Decision: RIPPUB
• Original Classification: T
• Document Page Count: 3
• Document Creation Date: December 15, 2016
• Document Release Date: December 23, 2003
• Sequence Number: 29
• Publication Date: March 23, 1960
• Content Type: BRIEF

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. Approved For Release
NSC BRIEFING
BACKGROUND
23 March 1960
IRAQ
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increase in internal tensions as Iraqi
Communists bear brunt of Qasim?s political maneuvering.
A. Recent security precautions noted include increased military
patrolling in Baghdad, step-up in army training activities,
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B. Military Governor-General Abdi issued order on 23 March banning
carrying of weapons, except shotguns, within all major Iraqi towns.
D.
Major clash between Communists and nationalists reported by
Basra consulate as occurring there on 19 March. Fifteen
injured and 50 to 75 arrested.
III. Major disturbances between Communist and non-Communist elements
have become increasingly likely.
A. Moves by government to limit Communist influence have em-
boldened anti-Communists and seem to have made Communist
leaders feel they must stage some demonstration of strength.
State Department review completed
Approved For Relea
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Approved For Releas
B. Communist-controlled newspapers are continuing to snipe at
regime and Communist leaders were apparently behind rash of
minor strikes last week.
IV. Qasim appears to be falling back on the army as his chief political
support and key army officers, mostly anti-Communist, will probably
play a vital role in future developments.
Approved For Releaso 2004/01/15 : CIA-RDP79R0089OA901200030029-0
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 Approved For Release 2004/01/15 : CIA-RDP79R0089OA001200030029-0
Approved For Release 2004/01/15 : CIA-RDP79R0089OA001200030029-0