He is blamed for a string of kidnappings and suicide bombings.
Local doctors said at least three civilians were killed in the raid, but the US said “only Zarqawi operatives”, not civilians, were at the site.
Clashes erupted in Baghdad’s centre between US forces and Iraqi militants after overnight US raids on Sadr City.
Residents said dozens of tanks roamed the streets of the suburb, which is a stronghold of Shia militiamen.
