kidnappers
Four of the kidnappers were killed in the gunfight and six were detained, according to the Iraqi Defense Ministry. US military officials, however, said the number of suspected kidnappers detained was much larger.
Al-Qusaibi said several of his men were wounded, but none killed.
The US military has sought to play down the role it played in the rescue operation, touting the success as evidence of the growing capabilities of the Iraqi forces.
"The sheiks' rescue mission is one that required advanced coordination and execution that couldn't have been accomplished without significant coalition support just a few months ago," said Brigadier General John Campbell, who was involved in the rescue mission.
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