Sadr Retains Controls of Imam Ali Tomb

Previous reports mentioned that the keys to the Iman Ali Complex had been turned over to the Grand Ayatollah Ali Sistani.

Sadr spokesman Sheikh Ahmed Al-Shaybani said earlier today that Sadr wants to transfer the Imam Ali Tomb and its keys to Sistani.

"We will transfer the Tomb to the position which deserves it the most," said Shaybani, who added that it would be appropriate for Sistani to accept the offer.

The Sadr spokesman then said that no timetable had been set for when Sadr would hand over the Tomb. Shaybani called upon the interim Iraqi government to find peaceful ways to end the crisis.

Shaybani indicated that the Sadr affiliated Mahdi Army would continue to protect the Complex even after the transfer of the keys to Sistani.

"The Mahdi Army will continue to protect the Tomb and all of Najaf because this is a holy city. Americans are not permitted in Najaf. We are not finished in Najaf."