december 23, 2004 · 2,700 idps. however, resources to resettle iraqi kurdish families in northern...

December 23, 2004

Note: This report has been compiled from publicly available information. Although information has been gathered from reliable sources the currency and completeness of the information reported herein is subject to change and cannot be guaranteed. Inquiries, updates and comments are welcome and should be directed to PDMIN team at [email protected].

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Note: New content has been inserted in red, italicized, bold font.

Overview

Humanitarian Situation: Continued concern about security, attacks on civilians and Iraqi security forces, crime, and lethal exchanges between multinational force and insurgents; Food distribution OK except in heavy conflict areas; Infrastructure improving very slowly; Reconstruction and humanitarian operations slow; Political: After meeting with Syrian President Badshar al-Assad, Iranian Foreign Minister Faruq al-Shara reminds of Iran’s support for elections and says Iran not involved in violence; Iraqi Foreign Minister Hoshyar Zebari in China for political visit—follows trip by Iraqi Oil Minister Thamer Abbas Ghadbane; Two think-tanks critical of US approach to Iraq—Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) in Washington, DC and International Crisis Group (ICG); UN: Secretary General Kofi Annan says Iraqis must work together to chart their future; The Secretary General’s Special Representative Ashraf Qazi and UN’s Chief Electoral Officer Carlos Valenzuela brief British Prime Minister Tony Blair on UN-supported election progress; Ten EU countries contribute to UN protection force fund; Refugees: UNHCR reports over 100,000 refugees returned to Iraq from Iran, including 42,000 of the 50,000 long-term camp residents—UNHCR and Iran working to consolidate camps; Thousands of returnees believe they will be compensated for voting inside Iraq in January elections; UNHCR says 130 Iranian Kurds and Palestinians remain in Jordan’s Ruweished camp, 760 on Jordan-Iraq border in no-man’s land, and 2,800 Iranian Kurds in Al Tash camp near Fallujah—1,400 departed during area conflict; Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs): Several hundred Fallujah IDPs pass through military checkpoint to asses damage and safety—2,000 were expected--private vehicles allowed; Humanitarians in Jordan report about 250,000 Fallujah IDPs in surrounding towns and Baghdad; Norwegian Refugee Council’s Global IDP Project estimates 800,000 mostly-Kurdish, long-term IDPs in north and up to 250,000 mostly Marsh Arab long-term Iraqi IDPs in central and south; Hundreds of thousands of returning Kurds cause recent displacement in north; Iraqi Human Rights Minister Bakhtiar Amin, says some 1.5 million IDPs facing upcoming winter cold; Civil Society/Rule of Law: Election assessors arranged by Canadian-led group and encouraged by UN will remain in Jordan during election; US Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld says attacks will not stop after elections; Tensions reduced slightly in Mosul after multinational/Iraqi force operation—one of five bridges over Tigris reopened and more people seen on streets—conditions for secure election are questioned; Attacks, assassinations, and bombings continue; Civil–Military Interaction: As first residents are allowed to return to Fallujah, conflict continues between multinational/Iraqi security forces and insurgents; US reexamines base security after suicide bombing in Mosul—likely to result in stricter screening of Iraqis and deterioration of trust; Humanitarian Access to Iraq: Director General of the NGO Ministry, Dawood Pasha, acknowledges many fake NGOs registered; International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) makes second visit to Fallujah ahead of residents’ return—visit water and sewage plants and mortuary—advocates returning citizens to city as weather turns cold; No IRCS, ICRC, UN, or NGO presence in Fallujah;; UN, Red Cross, and NGOs supporting Fallujah IDPs outside city with food and non-food items they can take back into Fallujah; Economy/Oil: As a result of Joint Economic Commission talks in Washington, DC, US to assist in agriculture, oil, banking and finance, private sector job creation, and reintegration into world


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economy; US writes off all of the US$4.1 billion owed by Iraq; Paris Club of 19 countries, including US, Russia, France, and Germany, US writes off 80% of Iraq’s US$42 billion debt; Iraqi Prime Minister Iyad Allawi calls for Arab countries to write off US$80 billion owed them; Attack on northern oil infrastructure interrupts flow to Turkish port of Ceyhan; Oil income of US$20 billion since war; Water/power: Month-long power shortage reported in Baghdad limits electricity to as little as 4 hours a day, causing spoilage--Baghdad has had nearly 18 hours a day of electricity—additional significant rehab will be complete in 2005; US military reports more than half of Iraqis have access to potable water, and that less than half the sewage treatment plants are working; Clean water and power remain out in Fallujah; Food: World Food Program (WFP) reports November food distribution completed with some shortages in most governorates; Overall, PDS food delivery running smoothly--insecurity hampers distribution in some areas; Ministry of Trade takes over from WFP in contracting for food; WFP acquiring food supplies to implement one-year emergency program for most vulnerable; Agriculture Minister Sawasan Ali Magid al-Sharifi says ubiquitous Public Distribution System (PDS) causes some disincentives for increased Iraqi agriculture production; Health and Medical: Fallujah General Hospital and two clinics are reported to be operational; Shortage of medical supplies reported for Fallujah IDPs; Vaccines reported spoiled in Baghdad due to power shortage; Health Minister says it will take four years for health service to recover; UNICEF head Carol Bellamy says acute malnutrition among young children has nearly doubled since beginning of war.

In Country Humanitarian Assistance Information By Region

North Region

Erbil, Dahuk, Sulaymaniyah Coordination UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) currently collaborating with UN

Office of Project Services (UNOPS) on multi-million dollar project to help reintegrate 2,700 IDPs. However, resources to resettle Iraqi Kurdish families in northern Iraq remain limited. (Friday, Dec-03-04) Ministry of Human Rights in Sulamaniyah has been providing beneficiaries of joint International Rescue Committee (IRC)-UNHCR scheme with plots of land and US$1,000 in cash. IRC-UNHCR began repatriation of Iraqi Kurds in June 2004. Approximately 1,000 IDPs daily from Iran, according to Ministry for Displacement and Migration. (Friday, Dec-02-04) British NGO, Mine Action Group (MAG) is continuing de-mining work in Iraqi Kurdistan, including towns of Qadir Karam, Muzaffer and Karahenjir. (Wednesday, Nov-24-04)

Population Population of Erbil: 1,334,176 Population of Sulaymaniyah: 1,605,506 Population of Dahuk: 817,376

IDPs UN-sponsored program offering voluntary repatriation to Iraqi refugees from Iran improving due to decrease in differences between Iraq’s two main Kurdish parties, the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK). PUK was keener of the two to see convoys continue. (Friday, Dec-03-04)


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Approximately 300 Iraqi Kurdish IDPs in Chwarqurna town in Sulaymaniyah after returning from Iran 3 months ago. IDPs in the region reportedly short on resources to rebuild homes despite receiving money and land from officials. (Friday, Dec-02-04) About 300 Iranian Kurdish families recently arrived in Sulaymaniyah governorate after fleeing Al-Tash IDP camp, near Ramadi, due to insecurity. (Wednesday, Nov-24-04) Estimated 350 Assyrian Christian families in Baghdad ready to return to northern Iraq after attacks against churches in Baghdad and Mosul in August and October. However, Kurdish Muslims living on land Christians occupied before resettlement by Saddam Hussein do not want to leave. Ministry of Displacement and Migration, Christian and Kurdish groups discussing possible solutions. (Monday, Nov-22-04) According to UNHCR, there are approximately 42,000 IDPs living in Dahuk Governorate, 5,000 of which are living under the care of UN agencies. Included are Syrians fleeing Kurdish violence and Iranian Kurds from Al-Tash camp in Al-Anbar Governorate.

Food No New Information Health Sulaymaniyah Minister of Health says the governorate has fewer than 200 doctors.

Authorities are trying to encourage specialist doctors back to the region and train current medical staff. (Tuesday, Oct-05-04)

Non-Food Items –Shelter

No New Information

Water & Sanitation

No New Information

Security South Korean troops in Iraq went on high alert after receiving intelligence that insurgents may target them with car bombs around Christmas or New Year’s day. South Korea’s 3,600 troops are stationed near Erbil. (Thursday, Dec-23-04)

Other/Comments A mass grave was uncovered near the city of Sulaimaniya in the autonomous Kurdish region in northeastern Iraq. The site is believed to contain some 500 bodies. Evidence gathered from this site and other mass graves is expected to play a central part in the trial of Saddam Hussein and his top deputies, for war crimes and other crimes against humanity. (Tuesday, Dec-14-04) Kurdistan Institute of Elections (KIE) currently holding programs to educate party officials, civil servants and students on January elections in conjunction with US-based National Endowment for Democracy (NED), USAID and other development organizations. (Wednesday, Dec-01-04)

Al-Tamim, Ninewa, Salahaldin

Coordination Iraqi Red Crescent Society (IRCS) in Kirkuk asking for medicine, food and shelter items due to onset of winter and rise in displacement due to return of Kurds. There are about 8,785 people receiving assistance from 200 volunteers. Last assistance was received after war last year. (Friday, Nov-26-04)


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World Vision Australia, based in Mosul, pulled out of Iraq due to security concerns. Head of operations was shot dead in Mosul on September 29. (Friday, Nov-19-04)

Population Population of Mosul: 1.7 million Population of Kirkuk: 755,700 Population of Tikrit: 28,000

IDPs Iraqi Red Crescent Society (IRCS) says there are some 17,000 displaced people living in tents or former government buildings in Kirkuk as land disputes between returning Kurds and Arabs continue. (Friday, Nov-26-04) According to Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) report, there has been an increasing trend of newly-displaced Arabs in central Iraq (including Al-Tamim, Ninewa and Diyala) subjected to aggressive searches by Coalition Forces. Many Arab IDPs also report restricted access to services in Kurdish-controlled areas. (Wednesday, Nov-24-04) As of September 2004, there continue to be reports of Arabs displaced by Kurdish return movements, many taking refuge in military bases in Kikurk - numbers have been difficult to assess. Many have also sought refuge in non-Kurdish areas north and northeast of Baghdad. (Wednesday, Nov-24-04)

Food No New Information Health No New Information Non-Food Items –Shelter

Iraqi civilian companies and US working to repair Baiji Power Plant complex in Baiji town – repairs expected to be completed next year. Oct-27-04

Water & Sanitation

No New Information.

Security Hundreds of US troops, Iraqi National Guardsmen and Kurdish militiamen reportedly patrolled the streets of Mosul, and searched for weapons in some eastern neighborhoods. (Thursday, Dec-23-04) Death toll in suspected suicide attack in US base in Mosul rises to 22, including 14 US soldiers, 3 Iraqi security personnel and 4 contractors. Sixty-nine others were injured. (Thursday, Dec-23-04)

Other/Comments One of Mosul’s 5 bridges across Tigris River re-opened. Schools remained closed. (Thursday, Dec-23-04) Governor closes all bridges across the Tigris River and nighttime curfew is enforced. (Wednesday, Dec-22-04) A large area of Iraq lost electricity after a fire broke out in a major power plant in Baiji, 155 miles (250km) north of Baghdad. According to witnesses, outage affected areas of Baghdad, Basrah to the south and Najaf to the southwest. (Sunday, Dec-12-2004) Iraq television in Mosul is back on the air after two days of interruption. The local television station Al-Iraqiya-Ninevah came under RPG fire last Thursday (December 9). (Sunday, Dec-12-2004) US military officials express concern that recent arrival of thousands of Kurdish militia in Mosul, which were cooperating with multinational forces against recent insurgent attacks, may increase ethnic tensions. (Thursday, Dec-03-04)


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Iraqi Property Claims Commission (IPCC) was established by coalition and Iraqi government in January 2004 to address property disputes between Kurds and non-Arabs, and Arabs as a result of “Arabization” program of former regime. Some 19,000 cases have been filed, but in September 2004, IPCC still not in the position to address them. Delays raise concerns of rising ethnic tensions. Reports say Kurdish authorities have already begun re-distributing land in Kirkuk. (Wednesday, Nov-24-04) About 2,000 Iraqi National Guardsmen were deployed a week ago to guard oil pipelines in Khabbaza, near Northern Oil Company headquarters near Kirkuk, as the first step toward replacing tribesmen. (Tuesday, Nov-30-04) Mosul Governor Duraid Kashmoula says curfew will continue to be imposed on the city from 4:00pm to 6:00am in the morning. (Sunday, Nov-14-04) US-led troops impose curfew and surround Hawija town after mortar attack on National Guard compound. (Friday, Nov-12-04). Curfew in place in Samarrah since last month remains in place. (Friday, Nov-12-04). Baiji town authorities have imposed indefinite curfew – roadblocks into town have been set up. (Wednesday, Nov-10-04)

Central/West Regions

Al Anbar, Diyala, Karbala, Babil, Wasit, Najaf, Qadissiya Coordination The Iraqi Red Cross Society (IRCS) has moved its office in Fallujah to a safer

neighborhood due to continued clashes. Expresses concern for IDPs because of winter cold. (Wednesday, Dec-22-04) The International Organization of Migration (IOM) has launched two-week emergency aid operation for more than 200,000 IDPs in nine areas around Fallujah, as well as in other buildings improvised by IRCS. (Wednesday, Dec-22-04) According to Minster of Industry Hajim al-Hassani, Fallujah has been supplied with enough food, drinking water, and fuel to last until life gets back to normal. Hassani also said the each family returning to Fallujah will get immediate financial aid of US$100 and that an additional sum of US$500 will be given later. It is not clear whether the US or Iraqi government will be providing disbursements. Residents whose homes were damaged will be compensated between US$2,000 and US$10,000. (Monday, Dec-20-04) In preparation of IDP return to Fallujah, the Ministry of Trade has been tasked with coordination and pre-positioning of all logistics-related needs. (Monday, Dec-20-04) In preparation of IDP return to Fallujah, the Ministry of Industry and Minerals and the Ministry of Displacement and Migration have been tasked with creating an information database and acting as humanitarian agency liaison. (Monday, Dec-20-04)


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Six trucks carrying South African relief aid left Jordan today for Fallujah. The convoy, organized by Jordan’s Hashemite Charity Organization, is carrying 100 tons of food in addition to blankets and heaters donated by South Africa’s Al Imdad Foundation. (Monday, Dec-13-2004) An International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) delegation paid a short visit to Fallujah, guarded by the US military. ICRC insisted that it did not want an armed escort, to maintain their reputation of neutrality, but the US military said it was too dangerous for unaccompanied civilians. ICRC said it would again take this issue up with US authorities. (Friday, Dec-10-2004) More than US$120 million has been committed by the US and Iraqi governments for reconstruction in Iraq’s Al-Anbar province. More than half of the money will come from the Iraqi government during over the remainder of fiscal year 2004 and 2005. (Wednesday, Dec-8-2004) US Navy officials estimate that 10 percent of the buildings and one out of every three homes were destroyed during the recent offensive in Fallujah. However, the estimates of the total number of buildings in Fallujah varies from 21,000 to 50,000. (Wednesday, Dec-8-2004) The Iraqi Red Crescent Society (IRCS) requested permission to return to Fallujah in order to distribute aid and requested a security convoy of US troops to return to the city. The US military says that such a security convoy cannot be provided at this time. The IRCS and the US Military disagree as to why there is no longer IRCS presence in Fallujah. IRCS says they left at the request of the US military. The US military says that the IRCS requested to leave due to security issues. (Wednesday, Dec-8-2004) Iraqi government has deployed task force to Fallujah to oversee humanitarian and reconstruction efforts – includes representatives from ministries of Industry & Minerals, Municipalities & Public Works, Health, Electricity and Displacement & Migration – some soon to be based inside city. (Thursday, Dec.-02-04) Based in the mainly Kurdish town of Khanaqin, and the town of Mugdadiyya, the al-Salam Organisation, with backing from international NGOs, began distributing specially prepared food packages to around 800 internally displaced children who are showing signs of malnutrition. Aid groups say some 3,200 Arab families evicted from Kurdish areas after the war are living in the Mugdadiyya area in bad conditions. (Wednesday, Dec-01-04) International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) says it still cannot enter Fallujah because it has not received minimum security assurances from warring parties. (Monday, Nov-29-04)

Population Population of Al-Anbar: 1,270,952 Population of Diyala: 1,271,310 Population of Karbala: 741,744 Population of Babil: 1,408,730 Population of Wasit: 938.734 Population of Najaf: 950.222 Population of Qadissiya: 915,564

IDPs US soldiers estimate about 200 to 300 IDPs returned to Fallujah’s southwestern al-Andalus district, although an estimated 2,000 were expected.


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Many reportedly said they were assessing homes and would not stay if clashes continued. Residents of Fallujah’s 17 other districts will wait for future announcements in Iraqi newspapers. (Thursday, Dec-23-04) US and Iraqi forces are manning two checkpoints for Fallujah returnees. Insurgents have reportedly warned IDPs not to return to their homes while fighting continues. (Thursday, Dec-23-04) According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), there are approximately 217,000 IDPs that have left Fallujah. This number is broken down as follows: 3,600 families in the Karma area, 5,000 families in Habaniyah, 20,000 families in the Amiriyah area, 2,000 families in the Saklawiya area, 3,500 families in the Nieamiya area, and an estimated 500 families each in Heet, Aana, Rawa, and Hadeatha. IOM monitors report that access to these areas is sporadic due to military activities and insecurity. (Monday, Dec-20-04) Restoring facilities in Fallujah will take time, according to US military assessment of medical facilities, water treatment plants, power plants, roads and housing. The Chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Richard Myers, reported that residents of Fallujah could begin returning, by designated sections, within the next few days. Gen. Myers also reported that the presence of booby-traps, unexploded ordnance, and pockets of insurgents remaining in the city continue to inhibit the return of Fallujah IDPs. (Tuesday, Dec-14-04) According to a UNHCR briefing, approximately 760 refugees remain in “no-man’s land” near the Jordanian-Iraqi border. Most of these refugees are Iranian Kurds and Palestinians who had previously been in exile in Iraq. (Friday, Dec-10-2004) US Marines report that 97% of Fallujah’s more than 20,000 buildings have been “swept” several times and this is hopefully the last sweep of the buildings. Iraqi Commander of Fallujah said he would like to begin bringing back some of the 250,000 displaced people by December 24. Resettlement of Fallujah is to take place district by district, after heads of households have come in to inspect the damage. All men of military age will be processed through a central database using photographs, fingerprints and iris scans, before being issued ID cards. There will be approximately 40 processing stations in place to expedite this process. (Thursday, Dec-9-2004) Iraqi government apparently planning to take IDP heads of households by bus into Fallujah neighborhoods to make initial assessments of homes. (Thursday, Dec-02-04) UN releases report complied by various aid agencies this week on Fallujah describes insecurity and food shortages at IDP camps. Colder temperatures means more than 15,000 families are in need of shelter items and blankets. (Thursday, Dec-02-04) Access to IDPs around Fallujah, such as those at Nieamiya, reportedly difficult even by Ministry of Health, due to insecurity. (Thursday, Dec-02-04) The Iraqi Red Crescent Society (IRCS) says that hundreds of people have fled the towns of Mahmoudya and Latifiyah, as US and British troops battle with insurgents.


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A medical official from the main hospital in Latifiyah says that the hospital had run out of medicine and surgical materials. Some 1,500 people are camped in an area 10 km south of the town while another 100 families have taken refuge in a mosque 10 km from the city. (Thursday, Dec-02-04) US officials say Fallujah will be opened sequentially to residents, starting in north and moving southward as basic services are restored in 16 separate designated areas. No cars will be allowed to prevent car bombs. US$36 million wastewater treatment plant, new school buildings and several health clinics also planned. (Wednesday, Dec-01-04) Relief officials say reconstruction projects undertaken in Najaf since fighting in August have been plagued by corruption, overpayment, shoddy work, as well as lack of local people with training to operate new facilities. (Wednesday, Dec-01-04) Three Iraqi Ministry of Displacement and Migration officials managed to enter Al Tash camp, near Ramadi, and found situation bleak – no water or power. Health and police posts not working for past 10 days. Remaining refugees in camp want to leave due to insecurity. (Tuesday, Nov-30-04) US Marine official says US-led forces have to search around 50,000 buildings in Fallujah for arms first before IDPs can return – possibly take weeks. (Monday, Nov-29-04) IRCS President Dr. Said Haqi said that it will be up to two months before approximately 250,000 IDPs will be able to return to Fallujah. (Saturday, Nov-27-04) UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) expresses concerns for remaining 4,200 Iranian Kurds in Al Tash refugee camp, near Ramadi. Police station is empty following armed attack, and no one else is providing security. (Friday, Nov-26-04) UNHCR says there are concerns for IDPs remaining in Al-Tash camp after about 1,400 fled because of fighting in nearby Ramadi city last week. Most likely went to northern Iraq or Jordan. Local services, such as water and electricity, had been cut off and delivery of food aid has become difficult due to insecurity. (Wednesday, Nov-24-04)

Food Ministry of Trade prepositions food in Fallujah for returning residents (Wednesday, Dec-22-04) Canned food will be distributed to the Fallujan IDPs, for the initial two-week phase of the IOM emergency aid operation. The IOM and UNHCR will then collaborate to distribute food to four of the nine IDP locations around Fallujah. (Tuesday, Dec-21-04) In preparation of IDP return to Fallujah, the Ministry of Trade has been tasked with coordination and pre-positioning food-related needs. (Monday, Dec-20-04) Iraqi Ministry of Displacement and Migration officials say food has reached Al-Tash camp, near Ramadi, through public distribution system, despite continuing insecurity and bleak conditions. (Tuesday, Nov-30-04)

Health In Fallujah, General Hospital reported as operational. US Marine spokesperson says two clinics and two hospitals have been set up. (Wednesday, Dec-22-04)


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In preparation of IDP return to Fallujah, the Ministry of Health has been tasked with coordination and pre-positioning of all health-related needs. (Monday, Dec-20-04) Rabies has been identified as a potential health risk for refugees returning to Fallujah. Accordingly, the US military has been reportedly ordered to “thin out” the animal population in Fallujah. (Friday, Dec-10-2004) Ministry of Health reportedly requested NGOs to assist IDPs in Habbaniyah (near Fallujah) with food and non-food items, as well as oxygen for Amiriyah Hospital. Shortage of medical supplies reported in health centers in IDP locations around Fallujah. (Thursday, Dec-02-04) Doctors say that they have been trying to get authorization to bring injured people to Fallujah’s main hospital, but US troops have said it is unsafe to move around in city. Cases treated so far have been related to heart disease, fever and dehydration. (Wednesday, Dec-01-04) International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) said Iraqi Red Crescent Society (IRCS) has set up relief center near city center in Fallujah, however, continued fighting makes it impossible for medical personnel to move around and treat wounded. (Monday, Nov-29-04) IRCS says IDPs in towns around Fallujah are suffering from skin disease due to lack of water and proper hygiene – continues to monitor IDPs there. (Monday, Nov-29-04) International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) says diarrhea and fever have been a crucial problem in areas around Fallujah, including Habbaniya town. (Thursday, Nov-18-04)


The Iraqi government said that Fallujah IDPs would eventually be paid between US$2,000 to US$10,000 in compensation for damaged homes. Shopkeepers would receive between US$1,500 to US$3,000, while each family would be given US$100, a heater and fuel rations for immediate needs. (Thursday, Dec-23-04) The International Organization for Migration (IOM) launched a two-week emergency aid operation to help some 216,000 IDPs in nine locations around Fallujah. IOM packages include blankets, heaters, plastic sheeting, cooking sets, cooking stoves, hygiene kits, chlorine tablets and jerry cans. The IOM maintains two large warehouses in Iraq where non-food items are stored. (Tuesday, Dec-21-04) In preparation of IDP return to Fallujah, the Ministry of Industry and Minerals (MOIM) has been tasked with coordination and pre-positioning of all relief and shelter needs. (Monday, Dec-20-04) In preparation of IDP return to Fallujah, the Ministry of Oil and the Ministry of Municipalities and Public Works (MMPW) have been tasked with coordination and pre-positioning of all infrastructure and fuel needs. (Monday, Dec-20-04) Iraqi Ministry of Industry and Minerals reportedly delivered 8,000 blankets to IDP camps around Fallujah on November 24, but no further details were available. NGOs say more shelter items needed due to colder temperatures. (Thursday, Dec-


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01-04) US civil affairs teams have begun making condolence payments to residents – maximum of up to US$2,500 per person. Iraqi government has also promised US$100 to each returning family. (Wednesday, Dec-01-04) Approximately 70 percent of houses and shops have been destroyed in Fallujah. (Wednesday, Dec-01-04) Iraqi government and US military have set aside US$178 million for immediate repairs to Fallujah. (Tuesday, Nov-23-04) UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and International Organization for Migration (IOM) have made available tents and other non-food items to IDPs in and around Fallujah. (Tuesday, Nov-16-04)

Water & Sanitation

US Marine spokesperson says that 500,000-gallon water tanks have been distributed in Al Andalus neighborhood in Fallujah for returning IDPs. (Wednesday, Dec-22-04) An International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) team made its second visit to Fallujah on Tuesday (December 21) and inspected the city’s water and sewage plants as well as mortuaries—says water pumps working, but purification systems damaged or inoperative. US officials say it will take a long time to restore basic services. (Wednesday, Dec-22-04) In preparation of IDP return to Fallujah, the Ministry of Municipalities and Public Works (MMPW) has been tasked with coordination and pre-positioning of all water and sanitation needs. (Monday, Dec-20-04) According to the Red Cross, the streets in Fallujah are flooded with sewage water, creating pollution and health risks that must be resolved before the estimated 250,000 IDPs can return. The water treatment facility for the city must be drained before an assessment of the damage can be made. (Friday, Dec-10-2004)

Security US officials said some US Marines and several insurgents have been killed in continuing clashes in Fallujah, but gave no numbers. US airstrikes continue on city’s outskirts. (Thursday, Dec-23-04) Three US Marines reportedly killed in clashes in Al Anbar province, but US military did not give details. (Thursday, Dec-23-04) A suspected insurgent was killed this morning as he reportedly attempted to plant a roadside bomb just south of Baquba. (Thursday, Dec-23-04) Iraqi police recently arrested 5 Iraqis and an East Asian linked to recent attacks in Karbala. (Thursday, Dec-23-04)

Other/Comments The police imposed a curfew in Najaf’s old city in response to the weekend suicide bombing. (Sunday, Dec-19-04). According to US military, without the return of residents to Fallujah, humanitarian aid has not been delivered in the city and residents have not been able to meet the December 15 deadline for registering for the January 30 election. Recent violence has further delayed the residents’ return to Fallujah. (Thursday, Dec-16-04)


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Sheik Abdullah al-Janabi, most powerful figure of the Janabis and Kargoulis tribal families, was able to flee the Mahmudiya Mosque in Fallujah before it was overrun by US troops. He is identified as a leader of the insurgency in central Iraq. NGO reports indicate that multinational forces are allowing residents to go to Al Rawda Al Mohammadia Mosque in Fallujah to receive aid between 8-12 am. (Thursday, Dec-02-04) US military raised death toll of US troops killed in Fallujah offensive from 51 to 71, making November second deadliest month. Between 1,200 to 1,600 insurgents estimated killed in offensive. (Thursday, Dec-02-04) US military keeping close eye on aid deliveries to Fallujah to ensure they do not contain weapons or supplies for insurgents and are searching vehicles entering city – also concerned that insurgents are relying on aid during day and carrying out attacks at night. (Wednesday, Dec-01-04) IRCS says it believes more than 6,000 people died in the assault in Fallujah and one-third of homes needing rebuilding. (Saturday, Nov-27-04) Curfew restrictions announced in Kuja city and governorate of Najaf. (Friday, Nov-12-04) Prime Minister Iyad Allawi imposes curfew and other emergency laws on Fallujah and Ramadi starting at 6:00pm – all roads and government facilities will be closed, weapons banned. (Monday, Nov-08-04)


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Baghdad

Baghdad Coordination The World Bank signed three contracts for Iraqi reconstruction and health projects

valued at US$145 million. The contract provided US$55 million for private sector development; US$65 million for Baghdad water and sanitation project; and US$25 million for emergency health. These are part of US $400 million Iraq trust fund administered by the World Bank. (Saturday, Dec-04-04) More than 60 women’s groups came together in Baghdad to speak out on the violence in Iraq. The event was sponsored by Iraqi Women’s Network and the Association of Councillors for Women’s Affairs in Iraq. (Friday, Dec-03-04) The British-based NGO, Medact released a report Tuesday (November 30) saying that the medical system in Iraq is in tatters and that there is an increased risk of disease and death. Medact says that cases of vaccine-preventable diseases were rising, and relief and reconstruction work had been mismanaged, a charge the Iraqi government denies. (Wednesday, Dec-01-04) Despite move to Jordan in 2003, UN monitors IDPs through NGOs on the ground. IDP response in Iraq is coordinated by “Cluster 8” composed of agencies, including UNHCR, IOM, UNOPS, WHO, UNICEF and FAO. Cluster 8 works closely with Iraqi Ministry of Displacement and Migration (MoDM), local authorities, Red Cross and NGOs such as Intersos and Islamic Relief. In 2004, working with Iraqi government in implementing IDP assistance and protection programs. (Wednesday, Nov-24-04) UNICEF has launched a US$40 million dollar project to ensure that children receive basic educational supplies. The agency has begun distributing more than 6 million school bags and education kits to children throughout Iraq. The project began with the start of the new school year in October and is supported by the Governments of Japan, Canada, Denmark and Luxembourg, the European Commission, the Spanish National Committee for UNICEF and the US Agency for International Development (USAID). (Monday, Nov-29-04) The Baghdad-based National Mine Action Authority (NMAA) is currently collaborating with offices in Basrah and Erbil to build national demining program. (Wednesday, Nov-24-04) Aid agency Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) withdrew from Iraq due to insecurity. MSF had 90 Iraqi staff and had been in Iraq since December 2002. (Thursday, Nov-04-04)

Population Population: 6.5 million IDPs According to the Iraq Red Crescent Society (IRCS), approximately 1,000 IDPs from

Fallujah are camped around a local mosque near Baghdad University. It is estimated that an additional 2,000 are living in tent cities or with relatives or other families near mosques around Baghdad. (Monday, Dec-20-04) International Organization for Migration (IOM) says over 5,800 families have been displaced to Baghdad, of which 2,839 have settled in Abu Ghraib area, 100 are in tents near Baghdad University, and 12 are on grounds of Baghdad International Fair. (Thursday, Dec-02-04)


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Thousands of IDPs from Fallujah are in camps that include those set by Iraqi NGO, Humanitarian Aid Society (HAS) and Omar al-Mukhtar charity, as well as those at mosque at Baghdad University and old al-Tagi military base under care of other NGOs and local residents. (Monday, Nov-29-04) According to Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) report, evictions of IDPs living in public buildings continuing in urban areas around Iraq, especially in Baghdad. (Friday, Nov-26-04) An estimated 60,000 Christians have fled Iraq for Syria and Jordan in recent months. Numbers have dropped from 1.3 million in 1987 to about 70,000 in Iraq. Estimated 20,000 – 50,000 Christians in Baghdad. (Monday, Nov-22-04) An Islamic relief group (name not given) has set up a camp for IDPs from Fallujah in Mansour area. Organization was formed after March 2003, and coordinates with Iraqi Red Crescent Society and other NGOs. More than 63 IDPs at camp. (Friday, Nov-19-04) UNCHR estimates around 30,000 Palestinians live in Baghdad. UNHCR is assisting 450 Palestinian families with rental support and other relief items—35 Palestinian families are still living in tents at the Haifa Sports Club; About 700 families of Roma origin are reportedly living in a former Baghdad orphanage.

Food No New Information Health Malaysian Red Crescent Society (MRCS), which has office in Baghdad, is helping

to rebuild hospital in the capital for first 6 months of next year – will send US$395,000 to Iraqi Red Crescent Society (IRCS) for hospital. (Monday, Nov-29-04)


No New Information

Water & Sanitation

No New Information

Security In western Baghdad, a US soldier was killed and two others injured by a roadside bomb. (Thursday, Dec-23-04)

Other/Comments US military and Iraqi government officials expect to spend more than US$100 million to fix infrastructure in Sadr City, Baghdad. US military projects include US$70 million for sewer infrastructure, U$30 million for power, and US$90 million for water, employing up to 3,000. However, insecurity continues to be a problem. (Thursday, Dec-21-04) Daily life in restive Sadr City in Baghdad reportedly returning back to normal – some small reconstruction projects are occurring, but local residents say that US-sponsored large-scale development projects have yet to begin. (Friday, Dec-03-04)

South Region

Basrah Coordination The Red Crescent Society relief ship of the United Arab Emirates left Dubai for the

port of Umm Qasr, carrying 400 tons of relief aid, including 20 containers of medical


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supplies. (Sunday, Dec-05-04) Regional Mine Action Center (RMAC), partners and other NGOS (including Iraq Landmine Impact Survey, ILIS) working again around Basrah city after 8 months of delays. NGO has been attacked twice and 1 local aid worker was killed – will close down physically in Basrah. (Friday, Dec-03-04) Iraq Landmine Impact Survey (ILIS), partner of RMAC, started in August and is working around Basrah. Most heavily affected is village of Jurf Al-Malh, close to Iran border. There are 750,000 MT of UXOs (unexploded ordnance) in and around Basrah, mainly from fleeing Iraqi troops last year. Iraqi National Guard also working to clear Al-Fao region south of Basrah. (Friday, Dec-03-04) INTERSOS, an Italian NGO is working with UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Iran’s south to register Iraqi returnees – NGO has four offices in southern governorates, including Shalamcheh city on Iranian border. (Friday, Nov-12-04)

Population Population of Basrah: 1,981,901 IDPs Housing shortage reported for refugees that have returned to Basrah from Iran –

many living in former government buildings. Despite rehabilitation and re-flooding of marshlands, creating livelihoods remains difficult. Officials say 300,000 housing units planned across the country. (Friday, Nov-12-04). At least 241, 962 Iraqi refugees have returned to southern Iraq since last year. (Friday, Nov-12-04). Based on the latest Ministry of Trade’s (MoT) Public Food Distribution statistics, Basrah population estimated around 3 million, an increase of 1.2 million since April 2003, indicating a large-scale population movement. (Wednesday, June-28-04)

Food No New Information Health Hay Al-Jihad clinic has been opened in area of Al-Amnal Dakhilay, southwest of

Basrah city, to serve around 117,000 residents. Ministry of Health says most of 85 medical centers in Basrah governorate have been renovated. (Tuesday, Nov-02-04).


No New Information

Water & Sanitation

USAID completes rehabilitation of southern Sweet Water Canal, including pumping station and water treatment plants, doubling fresh water for Basrah’s 1.75 million inhabitants. (Friday, Dec-17-04) UK-based Department for International Development (DFID) contributed US$ 34 million to US$100 million Emergency Infrastructure Program (EIP) in southern Iraq, which began September 2003 and is due to end December 2004. EIP projects included 25% improvement in water service in Basra city, overhaul of 40 petrol stations and replacement of 2000 km (1243 miles) of electric lines. (Wednesday, Oct-20-04)

Security No New Information Other/Comments The UK-based Department for International Development (DFID) has agreed to

provide 435,000 pounds (US$ 836,000) to rebuild a park and streets in Basrah, creating jobs for 600 people. (Thursday, Dec-23-04)


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According to Regional Mine Action Center (RMAC) in Basrah, a total of 9,574 items, including UXOs (unexploded ordnance) and mines, have been destroyed this year. (Friday, Dec-03-04) The UN’s Integrated Regional Information Network (IRIN) reports NGOs are rehabilitating 95 schools--a few others will be totally rebuilt. Multinational forces assists building repairs. (Friday, Oct-8-04)

Al Muthanna, Dhi Qar, Maysan, Coordination The deployment of Japanese Self Defense Forces stationed in Samawah and

Kuwait was extended for another year. There are up to 600 Japanese troops stationed in Samawah and 200 airmen in Kuwait. The Japanese troops mainly work on water supply, medical support, road maintenance and school renovation. (Thursday, Dec-9-2004)

Population Population of Al Muthanna: 569,933 Population of Dhi Qar: 1,538,871 Population of Maysan: 848,322

IDP Movement According to Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) report, Marsh Arab IDPs face difficulties obtaining documentation for monthly food rations due to lack of registration. (Friday, Nov-26-04)

Food No New Information Health Rabies reported in Maysan Governorate—mostly in children. (Thursday, Dec-02-04)Non-Food Items –Shelter

Government of Japan has extended grassroots human security grant aid of about US$772,000 to Road and Bridge Department of Al Muthanna governorate to repair roads. (Wednesday, Dec-1-04)

Water & Sanitation

The Japanese government provided the Agency for Cooperation and Technical Development (ACTED), a French NGO, with about US$353,000 for the implementation of Phase II of the Project for Improvement of Access to Safe Drinking Water in the Rural Areas of the province of Al-Muthanna. The project will provide hygienically safe water for about 67,000 residents in the southern part of Samawah. (Monday, Dec-13-2004) The Water Department of the governorate of Al Muthanna has purchased 26 water tank trucks and 304 feed tanks (worth a total of US$3.68 million) with a grassroots grant aid extended by the Japanese government. (Tuesday, Oct-26-04)

Security No New Information Other/Comments The UK-based Department for International Development (DFID) has agreed to

provide US$ 72,000 to provide employment training for over 400 people in Dhi Qar, and US$497,000 in infrastructure projects in Maysan, creating jobs for 6,400 people. (Thursday, Dec-23-04) Government of Japan has extended grassroots human security grant aid of about US$1.4 million to Electricity Department in Al Muthanna governorate to cope with power shortages in southern Iraq, including Samawah. (Friday, Nov-19-04)


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Neighboring Countries’ Humanitarian Activities/Preparations

Jordan

A water/sanitation training program for Iraqis was opened in Amman, Jordan as part of Japanese reconstruction assistance to Iraq, in cooperation with Water Authority of Jordan. Japan said it would extend US$1.5 billion in grant aid in 2004 and US$3.5 billion as loan aid from 2005 to 2007. (Monday, Nov-29-04) A number of Iraqi tuberculosis (TB) patients are being treated in the Al-Noor TB center in Jordan. (Wednesday, Nov-24-04) Iraqi authorities on Sunday (November 15) reopened border posts of al-Walid with Syria and border post of Trebil with Jordan after being closed down last week. The UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) on Tuesday (November 1) has suspended all activities in Al-Karama refugee camp in buffer zone between Jordan and Iraq due to increasing attacks on its staffers by disgruntled refugees – senior UNHCR official said the commission would seek third country to host the refugees, most of whom are Kurdish Iranians. Jordan recently approved entry of 384 Iranian Kurdish refugees to the camp. UNHCR’s Ruud Lubbers said that Jordan would not pressure the approximately 200,000 Iraqi refugees living in Jordan to return to Iraq. In addition, a limited number of Iraqis will be allowed to stay long-term, particularly those married to Jordanians. About 1,150 refugees reportedly remain in camps near the Jordan/Iraq border (Tuesday, Oct-12-04). At the Al-Ruwayshid Refugee Camp, managed by the Jordan Hashemite Charity Organization (JHCO), there are about 152 refugees. Most refugees are Palestinians who previously lived in Iraq, as well as some Sudanese and Somali refugees. About 100 Palestinians opted to return to Baghdad in late May 2004. Between April and July 2004, 226 Palestinians returned to Iraq. However, repatriation has almost stopped, with only two refugees repatriating in August and September, according to the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). Medical care and other assistance are being provided in Al-Ruwayshid by various agencies on the ground. Norwegian Church Aid (NCA) is responsible for solid waste and sanitation facilities in the Ruwayshid and Al-Karama camp under an agreement with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). Care-Austria, in collaboration with ECHO and UNHCR, is providing sanitary and social services including vaccinations for children and nutritional supplements for newborns and pregnant and breast-feeding women. Preparations are being made at the camps for the coming winter. This year, 879 individuals from the two camps have been resettled abroad. In Amman, UN workers, in cooperation with several NGOs and the Iraqi government, have created preliminary election register using database of former UN-administered food distribution system for January elections. The group effort is also running 4 seminars for independent Iraqi election observers. About 20 Iraqis from different ethnic and religious backgrounds, who represent a variety of NGOs in Iraq, to attend. (Wednesday, Oct-6-04). Several NGOs have evacuated their international staff members to Jordan due to insecurity. The French branch of the Red Cross announced in April that its activities in Iraq have been suspended and that it will provisionally close its office in Amman, Jordan. Four international staff from the German NGO, HELP, are reportedly among the latest aid workers to relocate to Amman, where they will continue work from there, due to security concerns (Friday, Oct-1-04). The NGO has about 50 local staff and has assisted in de-mining and water projects in Iraq since 2003.


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The Government of Jordan stated that borders with Iraq are open for the flow of goods. The Humanitarian Action Coordination Center (HACC-West) has advised that it needs 24-hour advance notice of vehicle movement into Iraq from Jordan.

Iran

Iran has closed its borders with Iraq until further notice in response to continuing violence in Iraq, following car bomb attacks that killed more than 100 people in Shi’ite pilgrimage cities of Karbala and Najaf over the weekend. (Wednesday, Dec-22-04) UNHCR reports that it is working with Iranian authorities on a phased program to close several refugee camps and consolidate others in Iran due to the high number of refugees that have returned to Iraq. The number of Iraqi refugees in Iranian camps has fallen to 8,000 from 50,000. Of the 22 camps in Iran, 6 are empty and 14 camps are nearly empty. Iran has an estimated 95,000 remaining Iraqi refugees. Prior UNHCR reports recorded more than 200,000 Iraqi refugees in Iran. Current UNHCR reports estimate that approximately 107,000 of these refugees have returned to Iraq. Many have returned on their own accord, while some 12,500 returned with UNHCR assistance. (Thursday, Dec-16-04) UNHCR has organized convoys from Iran to the southern Iraqi city of Basrah since November 2003, but due to the security situation in Iraq, the convoys are sporadically put on hold. Returnees receive a package of relief items, a one-month food ration, travel assistance, and mine-awareness training. UNHCR started facilitating the return of Iraqi Kurd refugees through the northern Haj Omran crossing at the end of June 2004. A total of 543 Iraqi Kurds returned but the returns were suspended due to concerns over housing shortages. UNHCR has been working with partnering organizations to build houses and other structures and facilities. Border crossings through the northern border were suspended at the end of November due to weather conditions. In southern Iraq, repatriation extended to another 9 governorates. UNHCR says it does not encourage returns, although it will assist those who insist on doing so. In March 2004 the Coalition Provisional Authority (CPA) limited ports of entry on Iran’s borders to three. Visitors to Iraq need a passport, complete an entry form, and will be entered into an immigration monitoring system.

Turkey

UNHCR scaled down its operations along the border between Turkey and Iraq to focus on relief efforts already underway in Iraq. Turkey will continue assistance to Iraqi refugees who fled Iraq prior the recent war and who now wish to return to Iraq. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is also scaling down their operations in Silopi, Turkey, but said it would be ready to assist in the repatriation of Iraqis. In January 2004 Iraqi, Turkish, and UNHCR officials agreed on return of up to 13,000 Turkish citizens (ethnic Kurds) to Turkey from Iraq who have lived in exile in Iraq since the early 1990s. An estimated 9,200 of these refugees are living in Mahmour Camp, near Erbil, while others are living in Dahuk and Erbil governorates. Iraqi authorities will ensure that the return is voluntary and that the refugees are not subjected to pressure. UNHCR will have full and unhindered access to the refugees both on Iraqi territory and once they have gone back to Turkey. Turkish authorities are to ensure that the refugees who volunteer to go back to Turkey are free to return to their former places of residence or any other places of their choice within Turkey.

Kuwait


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The Humanitarian Operations Center (HOC) requests 96 hours to issue a clearance to agencies to carry out cross-border operations. Established by the Pentagon and the Kuwaiti military in January 2003, the goal of the HOC is to coordinate and facilitate transportation and distribution of aid to Iraq from various sources in Kuwait, other governments, or international and local relief agencies. Kuwaiti officials and WE and British military officers staff the HOC. Humanitarian flights are exempt of all landing and parking fees. The Government of Kuwait has issued a statement that it must be notified 24 hours in advance to issue approved legal passes. UN staff wishing to travel to Iraq through Kuwait need security clearance and must complete a Kuwaiti immigration form. The immigration form, in addition to a copy of a mission plan, must be given to the transportation office by 1600 hours one day prior to the mission.

Syria

US Military Intelligence Officials say that Iraqi insurgents are aided by allies in Syria. According to information gathered several senior Iraqi Baathists operating in Syria are collecting money from private sources in Saudi Arabia and Europe and turning it over to the insurgency. Syrian ambassador to the United States rejected the accusations as unfounded, denying that Iraqi Baathists are taking refuge in Syria and that these accusations are part of smear campaign against Syria. (Wednesday, Dec-8-2004) Iraqi authorities on Sunday (Nov-15-2004) reopened border posts of al-Walid with Syria and border post of Trebil with Jordan after being closed down last week. Syrian Foreign Minister Faqrouq al-Shara on Sunday (Nov-7-2004) said Syria has reached a cooperation deal with Iraq to increase security along the Iraq-Syria border. According to reports, there are 4,000 Iraqi families registered by the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Damascus. Syrian authorities estimate there are about 300,000 Iraqis in Syria. (Tuesday, Oct-19-2004) The Government of Syria has granted UN agencies and International Organization for Migration (IOM) a number of exemptions for fees, taxes and levees related to the import/export of humanitarian transit cargo to Iraq. New border crossing procedures have improved cross border movements. In July 2004, Iraq reached an agreement with Syria to seal their 370-mile (600-km) border in an effort to stop the infiltration of foreign insurgents into Iraq. The border is to be controlled form both sides using special security forces.

Saudi Arabia

All but about 480 refugees have left Saudi Arabia’s Rafha camp out of the original 33,000 in 1991. The office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) reported that it had assisted a total of about 4,856 Iraqi refugees from Saudi Arabia as of May 18, 2004 (Tuesday). The Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (GoKSA) has issued a blanket authorization for overflight and landing for an unspecified period of time. These clearances apply to flights between Kuwait and Amman.

december 23, 2004 · 2,700 idps. however, resources to resettle iraqi kurdish families in northern...

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