MoD Information

British Launch Radio Station

Wed, April 02, 2003

Source: Ananova News

The British forces say they have launched a campaign to win over the hearts and minds of the people of Basra

The British forces say they have launched a campaign to win over the hearts and minds of the people of Basra. Capturing the southern city, which has been under siege for almost two weeks, is a key component in the Allies' plan to topple Saddam Hussein's regime.

Troops have been handing out leaflets, reassuring residents that the British are on the side of ordinary Iraqis and are interested only in defeating the ruling Ba'ath Party.

The leaflet acknowledges that the last time the city sought the help of the coalition - during the 1991 Gulf war - the promised support never materialised.

Headed "This time we won't abandon you", the leaflet declares "Be patient, together we will win" and features a drawing of a smiling squaddie shaking hands with an Iraqi.

The British have set up a local radio station called Radio Nahrain, which broadcasts news about the war and offers of jobs on an FM frequency.

Meanwhile, troops are also working to highlight the fact the Army will help the region get back on its feet after the pounding it has received from coalition forces.

Members of 32 Royal Engineers, attached to 7 Armed Brigade, are helping Iraqi oil workers try to put out an oil pipe fire 15km south of Basra, using a combat tractor to pour tons of sand on the burning oil.

This has allowed workers to get close enough to use hoses to spray foam on the oil and give them access to cut off the valve and stop its flow.