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American troops are on the alert in Falluja after Iraqi protests ended twice in bloodshed this week.

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Paratroops have been deployed in the town, once a bastion of Saddam's ruling party.

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Rallies against troops taking over a primary school have turned into demonstrations against the shooting of protesters.

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At least 13 people died in Monday's clash, and two more deaths were reported on Wednesday.

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Iraqi sources say some 75 people were wounded in Monday's clash.

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The Americans sought to ease the tension by withdrawing from the primary school.

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But there is little welcome in Falluja for the Americans, where people celebrated Saddam's birthday on Monday.