The Insider: Daily Terrorism Report

ByABC News
July 13, 2004, 11:36 AM

July 13 -- Filipino hostage, Angelo dela Cruz, was expected to be freed Tuesday following the Philippine government's agreement to withdraw its forces early from Iraq, a diplomatic source in Baghdad said, news wires report. However, the statement, which followed all-night Cabinet consultations, was unclear as to whether Manila was advancing the pullout as demanded by the Iraqi militant kidnappers, or was sticking to its commitment to bring its 51-strong force home on August 20th as planned. The confusion may have been premeditated as President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo seeks to maintain her steadfast support of the U.S.-led war on terrorism while avoiding a possible domestic backlash if dela Cruz is beheaded.

And in an in-depth feature on Jordanian terror chief Abu Musab al Zarqawi, the New York Times looks at the life of one of the most wanted men alive, accused of orchestrating guerrilla attacks, suicide bombings, kidnappings and beheadings in Iraq, with a reward of $25 million for his capture.

IRAQ NEWS

Philippines Vows to Withdraw Iraq TroopsHoping to save hostage, Philippines vows to withdraw troops from Iraq soon. (AP)

U.S. Marine 'Was Kidnapped' in IraqA Lebanese-born U.S. marine corporal who went missing in Iraq says he was kidnapped, according to US sources. (BBC)

"We Were Right To Go Into Iraq," Bush Says President seeks to offset Senate panel's findings. (Washington Post)

Kurdish Forces Capture Militants in IraqKurdish forces capture 15 militants in Iraq, including suspected leader of al-Qaeda-linked group. (AP)

Iraq Plans to Offer a Broad Amnesty "Blood draws more blood," President says in interview. (Washington Post)

Iraqi Police Launch Massive Sweep of Baghdad Neighborhood Iraqi police launched a massive sweep of a Baghdad neighborhood, killing one person and rounding up hundreds of suspected criminals, as the interim president promised to crack down on anyone threatening the country's security. (AP)

Iraqi Minister Appeals for Quick NATO AidIraqi Foreign Minister Hoshyar Zebari appealed Tuesday for NATO to quickly begin its promised mission to train his country's armed forces and provide assistance including military hardware. (AP)

Pakistani Ambassador Top Envoy to IraqAnnan selects Pakistan's ambassador to Washington for top U.N. post in Iraq. (AP)

Senior Iraqi Official Jailed for Corruption Finance ministry aide with links to Chalabi made false arrests. (The Guardian)