In a striking change of course, Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki is embracing Sunni Muslim tribal fighters whose role in combating al Qaeda he had allowed to wither after U.S. troops left two years ago.

Al Qaeda-linked militants swept into Anbar province two weeks ago moving into Falluja and Ramadi and delivering a setback to his government.

Now in a sitdown interview with Reuters, he is REVIVING the so-called "Son's of Iraq" -- the Sunni fighters who are helping the Shiite led government.

(SOUNDBITE) (Arabic) IRAQI PRIME MINISTER, NURI AL-MALIKI, SAYING:

"Those who stood against the ''Sons of Iraq' stand with those who do not want security. Those people contribute to achieving security and the government has to take care of them."

He said while Iraq eventually will need combat fighters and long-range missiles to defend its ground, its immediate need is for light and heavy infantry weapons to fight al Qaeda.

(SOUNDBITE) (Arabic) IRAQI PRIME MINIST