We’re not weak. But I don’t want to be dragged into a civil war.

was the primary cause of the latest uprising.

The American attack on our sacred sites is almost certain and we have taken the necessary measures.

All obstacles to forming a national unity government soon will be resolved.

I hold the occupying forces responsible for orchestrating this event.

I hope this is the beginning of an Islamic awakening and that it will lead to Islam’s triumph in other countries.

A large number of Mahdi Army men have gone to protect (voting) centers

We have noticed that the coalition has pulled back,

We condemn what some people are doing regarding the beheading of prisoners, and it is illegal according to Islamic law, … Anybody doing this is a criminal, and we will punish him according to Islamic...

We condemn the view that the (U.S.-led) occupation’s existence is beneficial for the Iraqi people because if it ended, there would be sectarian war – as if sectarian war has not already begun.

We condemn the view that the (US-led) occupation’s existence is beneficial for the Iraqi people because if it ended, there would be sectarian war as if sectarian war has not already begun.

We did not issue such a report,

We urge the Iraqis to be up to the level of responsibility… to keep Iraq’s unity and safety.