Iraqi Nationals React To Al-Zarqawi's Death

The death of the world's number 2 terrorist is being hailed as a major victory in the war on terrorism. <br/><br/>It comes as welcome news to world leaders, military men and women, and Iraqis. That

Thursday, June 8th 2006, 11:13 am

By: News On 6

The death of the world's number 2 terrorist is being hailed as a major victory in the war on terrorism.

It comes as welcome news to world leaders, military men and women, and Iraqis. That includes Iraqi nationals now living in Oklahoma. News on 6 anchor Craig Day says both men say Iraq and the world are better off without such an evil and violent man.

Sarhang Rafaii is a mechanic in Tulsa. He fled Iraq for the United States after the Gulf War. He's pleased terrorist Abu Musab al-Zarqawi was killed. "I think most of the Iraqi people are happy that it happened. Innocent people get killed because of him."

Another Tulsan of Iraqi descent agrees. Salih Mortadha came to TU as a student 20 years ago, but has many family members in Iraq. "I think it's a big blow. I'm hoping it sends a message that we're hunting them down and that we'll get them all and hopefully that will lead some of the insurgency groups to come to the negotiating table."

Both men hope al-Zarqawi's death will mean a leadership void and will disrupt Al-Quaida's financing network. And that will mean fewer attacks. Salih Mortadha: "This guy was a known terrorist. He didn't hide his agenda. So I think getting rid of him is a positive step in getting Iraq back on its feet."

Sarhang Rafaii: "There's a lot of dangerous people over there. That he was along? Or other people left behind to back him up."

Though there is concern, another terrorist will replace Al-Zarqawi, both Iraqi nationals say his death is an important development in bringing more stability to Iraq and the region. Salih Mortadha: "All the wave of violence that happened in Iraq really started with him."

They say the fight shouldn't end with al-Zarqawi and that Iraqis and coalition forces should keep working to find and eliminate terrorists.

Rafaii had hoped Al-Zarqawi would have been captured alive to provide information about other terrorists in Iraq. But he says the terrorist's death is still a victory for the people of Iraq.