Iraqi cleric Muqtada al-Sadr supporters confirmed the ultimatum they gave to the Bulgarian and Polish troops patrolling the streets of Karbala.

Hamza at-Tay, one of the leaders of the Mahdi's Army, spoke to Bulgarian Darik radio once again confirmed that they are firm on casting the coalition troops away, AFP reported.

At-Tay said that his people are grateful to Bulgaria for the tasks its troops executed but added, should the Bulgarians stay in Karbala "there would be a massacre". He pointed out that in his opinion the Polish troops are actually taking care of the peace in the region, while the Bulgarians are assisting the US soldiers in their special operations.

The Iraqi national also said that if the coalition forces do not leave Iraq within the given time "their destiny is clear". Hamza at-Tay explained that his people have no choice they will have to either win that war, or die.

Bulgaria's Defense Ministry announced that no such ultimatum has been given. Defense Minister Nikolay Svinarov even said the Bulgaria might withdraw its unit, adding that this decision depends on many things.

Situation in Karbala is getting to normal as most of the pilgrims have left the holy city.

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