On Christmas Eve, December 24, 2003, the 1st Armored Division launched Operation Iron Grip which was designed to intensify the pressure on Saddam loyalists. Intelligence gathered after the capture of Saddam Hussein reportedly indicated a network of cells operating in Baghdad.

Numerous raids and sweeps by the 1st Armored Division yielded both weapons and targeted suspects. It was reported on December 26, 2003 that seized weapons included 60 122 mm rockets, 34 AK-47 assault rifles, six other rifles, three shotguns, 11 pistols and large quantities of improvised explosive device-making material. Army Brig. Gen. Martin Dempsey, Commander of the 1st Armored Division also said on December 31, 2003 that over 185 enemy personnel had been captured.