While most coverage of the Shiite rebellion has focused on Viceroy Bremer's decision to close Al-Sadr newspaper two earlier actions were far more damaging.
The first was an announcement on March 26th.
American officials say they believe they have found legal basis for American troops to continue their military control over security situation in Iraq after Iraq resumes its sovereignty in June... L. Paul Bremer 3rd, the chief of the occupation authority, issued an executive order this week specifying that the newly formed Iraqi armed forces be placed under the operational control of the U.S. commander, Lieutenant General Ricardo Sanchez, who has been named to lead U.S. and allied forces after the transfer of political authority to the Iraqis.
Bremer followed this up on April 4th, the day the Sadr rebellion began,
With less than three months remaining before the United States hands political power over to Iraqis, the U.S.-led coalition announced on Sunday the appointment of an Iraqi defense minister and chief of national intelligence.
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