U.S. President George W. Bush on Thursday hailed the killing of Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, saying the death of the al-Qaida leader was "a severe blow" to the terrorist organization and victory in the anti-terror war.

In a statement read at the White House, Bush said the death of al-Zarqawi offered the Iraqi government an opportunity "to turn the tide" in the war.

Nevertheless, the president acknowledged that despite the al-Zarqawi's death, sectarian violence in Iraq would continue.

"We have tough days ahead of us in Iraq that will require the continuing patience of the American people," he said.

Source: Xinhua