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2 Iraq Cult Attacks Kill At Least 46

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By CHRISTOPHER CHESTER, The Associated Press

Published: January 19, 2008

BAGHDAD - Violence left nearly 50 people dead in two major southern cities Friday when members of a shadowy, messianic cult attacked police and fellow Shiite worshippers - a year after a similar plot was foiled during Shiite Islam's most important holiday.
Iraqi authorities said at least 36 people were reported killed in Basra, Iraq's second largest city, and at least 10 in Nasiriyah, where witnesses said U.S.-led coalition jets and helicopter gunships targeted a police station seized by cultists.

U.S. military spokesman Maj. Brad Leighton said Iraq's request for air support was approved, but could not confirm whether strikes were carried out. Some clashes raged into the night, raising the possibility of more casualties.

The assaults came as hundreds of thousands of Shiites observed Ashoura by marching, singing and beating their chests to honor the martyrdom of their most beloved saint. Followers of the cult - Soldiers of Heaven - seek to speed the return of a Shiite figure, the "Hidden Imam," who, believers say, will bring justice to the world.

Recent high-profile attacks are eroding security gains of the past six months, when violence dropped in much of Iraq. The main insurgent group, al-Qaida in Iraq, has attacked fellow Sunnis who turned against it. But insurgents used suicide blasts this week against Shiites observing Ashoura.

The clashes point to a problem that shows no signs of easing: Shiites attacking Shiites. The attacks are a reminder of divisions among Shiites while the Pentagon claims some success calming armed opposition among Sunnis.

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