Iraq briefing

With the US-led advance slowed, emphasis moves to air power and consolidation. US military leaders reject suggestions the advance has stalled. Iraq warns of more suicide bombers. Heavy aerial attacks on Baghdad Republican Guard units. US and British troops struggle to take Basra and Nasiriyah as US Marines encircle Najaf. Syria again warned by US to stay out of the war.

The fight

* Cruise missiles and guided bombs attack Baghdad. British Marines battle paramilitaries south of Basra.

* Iraq says it has destroyed two US or British tanks and nine armoured personnel carriers outside Basra.

* B-52 bombers hit positions near Mosul and Kirkuk.

* A man in civilian clothes drives a truck into US soldiers in Kuwait City, injuring 15.

Propaganda war

* British officials retract a claim commandos captured an Iraqi Republican Guard general in Basra, but say Iraqi officers have been among casualties.

* Iraqi TV shows interview with journalist Peter Arnett, who says US war plan has failed.

* Iraq claims 4000 Arab volunteers have arrived to conduct suicide attacks.

* US claims Iraq has secretly bought 1000 Russian Kornet anti-tank missiles via Syria.

Casualties

* Three US Marines killed and at least one injured when a UH-1 Huey transport helicopter crashes in southern Iraq.

* British soldiers wounded by "friendly fire" describe the US pilot who attacked them, killing one, as a "cowboy".

Herald Feature: Iraq war