WASHINGTON –Congressman Cole made the following statement upon the death of Abu Musab al-Zarqawi.

      "The death of Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, the leader of al Qaeda in Iraq and the most visible face of the insurgency in Iraq, is an important victory for American, Iraqi and coalition forces.  It is also a significant success for the new, freely-elected Iraqi government and the Iraqi people.

     "I am particularly pleased that the critical information that led American Special Forces to al-Zarqawi came from Iraqi citizens and Iraqi security forces.  The Iraqi people, their elected representatives and the brave men and women who serve in the Iraqi police and armed forces deserve enormous credit for their willingness to work every day to bring peace and freedom to their nation.

     "Today's success also is a testament to America's armed forces and intelligence services.  Their dedication to duty and their focus on their mission will, I am confident, lead us to victory in Iraq and the broader War on Terror.  I am grateful for their willingness to serve and to defend America."