White House condems killing of Iraqi tribal leader

WASHINGTON, Sep 13 (Reuters) The White House today said it condemned the killing of Sunni Arab tribal leader Abdul Sattar Abu Risha, who had recently met with President George W Bush during his visit to Iraq.

''We condemn today's assassination of Sheikh Abdul Sattar,'' White House National Security spokeswoman Kate Starr said. Bush recognized his ''courage'' in his recent meeting in Anbar, she said.

The Sunni leader had played a critical role in improving security in restive Anbar province.

Reuters RAR DB2254