BAGHDAD, July 29, SPA -- An Iraqi commander says a new U.S.-backedoperation has begun in Diyala province northeast of Baghdad, the Associated Press reported. Gen. Ali Ghaidan says the operation that began Tuesday isaimed at clearing the last major insurgent stronghold near Baghdad. The U.S. military in northern Iraq also says the offensive is underway. The operation dubbed «Omens of Prosperity» is the latestin a series of efforts to control the largely rural area.--SPA www.spa.gov.sa/577794