Michael Yon and Michael Gordon of the New York Times appear to be the only reporters on the scene for this 10,000 man military operation focused on trapping and killing Al Qaeda fighters in the vicinity of Baquba. He says they are being given full access to the battlefield and to the video feeds coming through headquarters.
Yes, civilian casualties are occurring. Read why and you may get a better understanding how Al Quaeda was able to use uninformed media organizations to further their mission in the past.
On the other hand, civilians are pointing out IEDs and enemy fighters, so that’s a good indication that Al Qaeda has worn out their welcome.
You can read Michael’s version of the action on his website. I haven’t seen any other original reporting at all, and according to Michael, mainstream media organizations are still trying to get reporters out there.
You don’t have to wait for CNN, TIME, or Reuters, you can read what is happening today.