Baghdad, 30 April (AKI) - More than 900 people have been killed in violent clashes between militiamen and security forces in Baghdad's Sadr City in the past month.

According to official statistics released by the Iraqi government and the US army on Wednesday, a total of 925 people have been killed in recent military operations.

Speaking at a media conference with US officials in Baghdad, Iraqi government spokesman Tahseen al-Sheilhly, said the casualty toll from military operations by US-Iraqi forces totalled 925 dead and 2,605 wounded since March 25.

"We have said all along this will be a tough fight," General Kevin J. Bergner, spokesman for the multi-national force, said.

US and Iraqi troops have recently clashed with Shia militants loyal to radical cleric Moqtada al-Sadr and his Mahdi Army militia.

The US military said at least 28 militants were killed during battles in the Sadr City area of the capital on Tuesday, while two American soldiers were killed in separate attacks.

The Iraqi government recently launched a major crackdown called Saulat al-Fursan (or Knights' Assault) on gunmen in Basra, resulting in clashes between government security forces and the Mahdi Army.

Although heavy fighting has fallen in Basra and major cities, it has intensified recently in Baghdad.

Al-Sheilhly told the media “86 schools were closed due to threats targeting students and teachers.”

April has been the most deadly month for US troops since September last year. In April 46 American soldiers were killed, compared to 65 deaths in September.