November 17, 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].

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

Overview

Humanitarian Situation: Continued concern about security, attacks on civilians, hostage taking, crime, and lethal exchanges between multinational force and Iraqis; Food distribution OK; Infrastructure improving very slowly; Reconstruction and humanitarian operations slow—security, supply, and bureaucratic impediments;

Political: On eve of cooperation celebration trip to UK, French President Jacques Chirac says world is not safer after Iraq war and terrorism has increased—also questions what UK has gained by closely supporting US; EU’s top development official, Poul Nielson, says apparent killing of CARE country director Margaret Hassan may jeopardize hundreds of million of dollars in EU aid-- aid is dependent on Iraqi security;

UN: One of five US Congressional committees investigating corruption in UN Oil-for-Food program focuses on possible anti-money laundering improprieties of major French Bank—UN investigation also ongoing under former US Federal Reserve Bank Chairman Paul Volckerf; The Secretary General’s Special Representative to Iraq, Ashraf Qazi says January 2005 elections technically possible—hopes political and security environments improve;

Refugees: Characterizing the situation in Iraq as unstable and dangerous, UNHCR calls for countries to refrain from forcing Iraqis to return home--UNHCR also discourages voluntary repatriation, but says that refugees continue to return; Over 100,000 refugees estimated to have returned from Iran—UNHCR provided significant support for about 17,000--most returning from Iran to south have been unassisted with minimal problems; 80,000 to 130,000 Iraqi refugees are estimated to remain in Iran;

Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs): ICRC, Iraqi Red Crescent, Association of Islamic Aid, and other local affiliates of NGOs delivering assistance to IDPs from Fallujah; Humanitarian organizations in Jordan estimate 250,000 IDPs from Fallujah moved to neighboring areas, including Baghdad; The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) estimates between 650,000 and 900,000 longer-term IDPs in Iraq—most of these do not stem from recent war and most are in north;

Civil Society/Rule of Law: Spokesman for respected Shiite cleric Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani calls for peaceful resolution in Fallujah—al-Sistani initiative to organize Shiites for January 2005 election win; Sunni Association of Muslim Scholars warns that Fallujah affects, and may delay, election; 54 parties applied to run in election—24 approved so far; In Fallujah, utilities are out and population not told to return—Iraqi government and multinational force considering hundreds of millions of dollars in reconstruction; Insurgent attacks, bombings, kidnappings, and assassinations continue;

Civil–Military Interaction: Multinational force continues fighting with remaining Fallujah insurgents; Conflict in Mosul and Ramadi--curfew in Mosul—all bridges had been closed; 30 Iraqi police kidnapped on way home from training in Jordan; Reports of very few civilians in Fallujah, but those do not have access to food, water, or medical care; UN closely monitoring situation for violation of rules of war by multinational force, Iraqi force, or insurgents;

Humanitarian Access to Iraq: Iraqi Red Crescent Society and NGOs say humanitarian crisis in Fallujah requires access; Iraqi government and multinational force say no crisis, they are handling

2 needs, and situation is too dangerous for Red Crescent Society or others; Increasingly likely CARE country director Margaret Hassan was killed by kidnappers;

Economy/Oil: Attacks on oil pipeline infrastructure continue; Oil exports not expected to exceed pre-war levels till 2005; Oil income of US$17 billion during 19 months since war; UN Joint Logistics Center (UNJLC) reports countrywide drop in imports of 10–30%, including food—oil products and auto imports remain steady; With additional attacks, foreign truckers increasingly transfer loads to Iraqi trucks near borders; UNJLC also reports increased shortages of petroleum products including vehicle fuels and cooking/heating fuels;

Water/power: US military reports that more than half the population has access to potable water and less than half the sewage treatment plants are working; Power-generating capacity grows to generate 5,300 megawatts (MW) of electricity with rehab of generators—prewar level was 4,400 MW—Baghdad has nearly 18 hours a day of electricity—additional significant rehab will be complete in 2005;

Food: World Food Program (WFP) worries that food supplies inside Fallujah cannot be moved to support Fallujah IDPs in neighboring cities; Public Distribution System (PDS) food delivery running smoothly; October food distribution essentially complete with some shortages— Ministry of Trade takes over from WFP in contracting for food--insecurity hampers distribution in some areas; WFP acquiring food supplies to implement one-year emergency program for most vulnerable;

Health and Medical: Dr Salih al-Isawi, acting director of the Fallujah General Hospital captured early in Fallujah assault, says no health services in Fallujah for last ten days—calls on Health Ministry for access for medical staff, supplies, and equipment; Continued shortage of medical supplies reported in conflict cities--Ramadi and Samarrah, in Najaf, site of earlier conflict, in Mahmudiyah, south of Baghdad, and in Baquba, northeast of Baghdad.

In Country Humanitarian Assistance Information By Region

North Region

Erbil, Dahuk, Sulaymaniyah Coordination UN Office of the Humanitarian Coordinator for Iraq (UNOHCI) is aware of 36 NGOs in northern Iraq.

International Rescue Committee (IRC) phasing out humanitarian assistance programs in Iraq due to security concerns after completing nearly all of its initial projects – has worked in Erbil, Sulaymaniyah and Dahuk. (Tuesday, Nov-09-04) Population Population of Erbil: 1,334,176 Population of Sulaymaniyah: 1,605,506 Population of Dahuk: 817,376 IDPs 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 – No New Information

3 Shelter Water & Sanitation No New Information Security Demining NGOs estimate more than 3,000 minefields remaining in the three northern governorates with 10 million mines. Nine demining organizations working, including four local ones. Mine awareness and removal being addressed. (Wednesday, July-7-04) Other/Comments No New Information

Al-Tamim, Ninewa, Salahaldin Coordination International Rescue Committee (IRC) phasing out humanitarian assistance programs in Iraq due to security concerns after completing nearly all of its initial projects – has worked in Kirkuk. (Tuesday, Nov-09-04) Population Population of Mosul: 1.7 million Population of Kirkuk: 755,700 Population of Tikrit: 28,000 IDPs International NGOS planning IDP projects in Kirkuk suspend work after agreement by city’s three main Kurdish, Turkoman and Arab communities to form an IDP committee collapsed. (Monday, Oct-25-04)

An estimated 14,000 families have arrived in the city since last year’s war. Over 3,000 mainly Kurdish families are living in tents, the city stadium and 20 schools. (Monday, Oct-25-04)

Kirkuk has about 15,000 IDPs. The City Council sets up commission to coordinate IDP-related matters. Local Kurdish NGOs nearing end of project to provide aid to poor IDP families that have returned to Kirkuk since last spring. (Monday, Oct-11-04)

According to reports, Salahaldin has over 70,000 IDPs, including 65,747 Kurds, 4,757 Turkmen, and 2,226 Arabs. Al-Tamim has some 84,000 IDPs, including 77,000 Kurds, 5,000 Arabs, and 2,000 Turkmen—most are in 44 camps. (Friday, Sept-03-04) Food UNICEF has been helping to deliver food supplies to Samarrah through (International Red Crescent Society) IRCS and UK-based NGO, Islamic Relief. (Tuesday, Oct-19-04) Health Samarrah Central Hospital reports severe shortage of medicine since fighting began in beginning of October despite interim deliveries by International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). (Tuesday, Oct-19-04) Non-Food Items Iraqi civilian companies and US working to repair Baiji Power Plant complex in Baiji –Shelter town – repairs expected to be completed next year. (Wednesday, Oct-27-04) Water & USAID reports that a new sewage network is being installed in a town in Salahaldin Sanitation governorate, which will benefit approximately 9,000 Iraqis. (Wednesday, Sept-15- 04)

USAID reports that a major water treatment plant in Al-Tamim governorate is on schedule for completion by November. (Wednesday, Sept-15-04)

4 Security Up to 14 people were killed and 26 others wounded from clashes and a suicide car bomb attack aimed at US forces in the town of Baiji, located some 155 miles (250 kilometers) north of Baghdad on Wednesday (November 17). It was not immediately known if there were any US casualties.

Saboteurs attacked an oil pipeline some 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) west of Samarra on Wednesday (November 17). The pipeline connects the Baiji refinery with the refinery in Dora, located south of Baghdad.

Mosul reportedly largely calm on second day of increased security operations on Wednesday (November 17). Insurgents fire mortar rounds on police station – no injuries reported. Police in beginning states of reoccupying stations and rebuilding forces – some police reportedly joined in this week’s militant attacks.

Two Turkish truck drivers were shot dead and trucks set on fire near Balad on Wednesday (November 17).

Iraqi police say that an Iraqi engineer working for the US, was found murdered near Tikrit on Wednesday (November 17). He was 40th such victim in recent months, Iraqi police say.

Insurgents clashed with guardsmen of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) in northern Mosul on Tuesday (November 16) – 2 insurgents and 2 civilians killed. Mosul home to ethnic Kurds and Turkmens, who have clashed with city’s Arabs. Other/Comments Four northern bridges in Mosul closed for second day. The southernmost bridge into the city has reopened, but all traffic is being screened at a checkpoint. (Wednesday, Nov-17-04)

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)

Turkoman National Front (TNF) says very little aid being given to Turkoman people, Iraq’s third largest ethnic group, in northern region, except for Turkish Red Crescent Society (TRCS), which works only in Tal Afar area. The NGO, Mideast Waqf relief, raising funds to deliver aid to Turkoman people around Iraq. Influx of Kurdish people to northern region could reportedly increase tensions among the Kurds, Arabs and Turkomans. (Friday, Oct-22-04)

UNICEF-supported school survey released by Iraq Ministry of Education indicates one-third of Iraqi primary schools lack water and sanitation – worst affected in Dhi Qar, Salahaldin and Diyala governorates. Overall enrollment increased in 2003/2004. (Friday, Oct-15-04)

5 Call for self-determination by thousands of Kurdish protestors in Kurdistan and Europe raised concerns of ethnic conflict in Kirkuk, which has Arabs, Kurds, Turkmen and Assyrians. (Wednesday, Oct-13-04)

USAID reports that construction at a new electricity generation project in Al Tamim governorate is more than two-thirds complete. The project will add 325 megawatts (MW) to Iraq’s national grid. The first 65 MW are scheduled to come online in November 2004. (Wednesday, Sept-29-04)

Central/West Regions

Al Anbar, Diyala, Karbala, Babil, Wasit, Najaf, Qadissiya Coordination US Marine civil affairs teams reportedly struggle to reach remaining civilians in Fallujah with water and food, amid continuing clashes. Iraqi military said joint Iraqi and US civil affairs units are being sent to each reclaimed section of Fallujah and are distributing aid. (Wednesday, Nov-17-04)

Iraq Red Crescent Society (IRCS) delivered food and non-food items from agencies including UAE Red Crescent Society and Iraqi Ministry of IDPs, to more than 1,000 families around Amiriya town, near Fallujah. IRCS will fill in gaps until government’s public distribution system (PDS) reaches IDPs. (Tuesday, Nov-16-04)

Convoy of 50 trucks from Association of Islamic Aid and IRCS reportedly brought food and non-food items to hundreds of IDPs in Saqlawiyah village, near Fallujah. Road linking Ramadi to Saqlawiyah reopened especially for aid. (Tuesday, Nov-16- 04).

Second IRCS convoy to Fallujah with food and non-food items not permitted to enter Fallujah on Saturday (November 13). Convoys distributed aid around Fallujah instead. (Tuesday, Nov-16-04).

US commanders say aid distribution centers have been opened in Fallujah to offer civilians food, water and medical supplies as fighting decreases in some areas. (Tuesday, Nov-16-04).

Kuwait’s Red Crescent Society said that it is planning to bring aid to 2,000 families remaining in Fallujah and some 150,000 people in makeshift camps around the city – hopes to send first convoy on Tuesday (November 16). (Monday, Nov-15-04).

Action Against Hunger, a Paris-based humanitarian organization, has suspended operations in Iraq because of deteriorating security situation. (Wednesday, Oct-27- 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 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].

6 Population of Wasit: 938.734 Population of Najaf: 950.222 Population of Qadissiya: 915,564 IDPs According Iraq Red Crescent Society (IRCS) in Al Anbar, at least an additional 4,000 families have fled Fallujah in recent days and are now struggling with lack of water, food and medicine. IRCS says there are approximately 250,000 IDPs in 12 different temporary camps around the area. (Tuesday, Nov-16-04)

Refugees say families taking refuge in Habbaniya town, near Fallujah, are suffering from diarrhea, malnutrition and poor medical aid. An aid convoy reached Habbaniyah on Thursday (November 12). (Friday, Nov-12-04).

Many of those who have fled Fallujah are living in cramped conditions at a tourist village and airport in Habaniyah town to the west. Government providing food and medicine. (Wednesday, Nov-10-04)

Governorate spokesperson says Fallujah’s population has gone from about 290,000 to around 30,000. Those left have reportedly taken refuge in places such as local mosques and abandoned schools in unhygienic conditions. (Monday, Nov-08-04)

Habaniyah town on outskirts of Fallujah now home to nearly 2,000 families with some 250 tents – number has doubled in last few weeks. Iraqi Red Crescent Society (IRCS) delivering water and food. More supplies expected in next few days. (Monday, Nov-08-04)

Families reportedly began to flee their homes in Ramadi as fighting between US-led forces and insurgents intensifies – no numbers are available. (Monday, Nov-01-04)

Ministry of Displacement and Migration (MoDM) officials say Shi’ite Muslims living in Latifiya town have been forced from their homes by insurgents and told to go to heavily Shi’ite city of Nasiriyah further south – about 500 families may have moved. Iraqi Red Crescent has not yet received word on forced migration. (Friday, Oct-29- 04) Food No New Information Health UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) says World Health Organization (WHO) has provided Iraqi Health Ministry with medical supplies and blood bags, while UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has provided potable water. (Tuesday, Nov-16-04)

The UN’s Integrated Regional Information Network reports that medical staff in Baqubah say that fighting is putting an added strain on city’s already taxed hospital. Hospital requests medicines, ambulances and other help from the government. (Tuesday, Nov-16-04)

Iraqi Red Crescent Society (IRCS) convoy with food, water and medical supplies denied access to Fallujah due to security concerns - allowed to enter main hospital in western Fallujah on Saturday (November 13), where International Federation of Red Cross (IFRC) has been operating, but not any further. Second hospital in eastern Fallujah also reopened by coalition forces. Access to both hospitals considered dangerous – patients diverted to Ramadi and Jordanian hospitals. (Monday, Nov-15-04)

Health Minister Alaeddin Abdul Sahib says multinational coalition has evacuated

7 400 uninjured civilians out of Fallujah in the past 48 hours, while injured brought to hospitals in Baghdad. Sahib says number of civilian casualties is only 20. (Monday, Nov-15-04)

Clinics in Fallujah has said that their clinics are low on medical supplies and work is hampered by ongoing fighting. (Tuesday, Nov-09-04)

Number of rabies cases have appeared in several Iraqi cities, especially in Al Anbar governorate, with more than 60 cases recorded, especially children. Iraqi Ministry of Health says spread of rabies due to shortage of vaccinations and treatments. Ministry has implemented campaign to vaccinate more than 145,000 children in Fallujah, Ramadi and two districts of the governorate. (Friday, Oct-22-04)

According to reports, chronic malnutrition affects 3 out of 10 children in Iraq, particularly in Al Anbar, Babil, Wasit, and other central and southern governorates. (Tuesday, Sept-7-04) Non-Food Items – UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and International Organization for Shelter Migration (IOM) have made available tents and other non-food items to IDPs in and around Fallujah. (Tuesday, Nov-16-04)

US military says more than US$90 million in US-funded reconstruction projects planned for Fallujah once it is secure – includes compensation payments, and water/sanitation, school and medical facility repair. (Wednesday, Nov-10-04) Water & The interim prime minister’s office has said that the Ministry of Municipalities will Sanitation spend nearly US$650 million on water and sanitation in the city of Najaf, particularly in the old part of the city where 90% of the system has been destroyed. (Wednesday, Sept-8-04)

8 Security On Wednesday (November 17), US forces in Iraq continue bombarding remaining insurgent pockets in southern Fallujah with mortar fire. Clashes reported in northern Jolan neighborhood. US officers say insurgents may have sneaked back into the city, particularly over Euphrates River.

Prime Minister Ayad Allawi on Wednesday (November 17) says he is “very concerned” about fatal shooting of injured and apparently unarmed man by US Marine in Fallujah mosque. Amnesty International (AI), which earlier blamed both sides for violations, and International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) both express concerns. US military says investigation being carried out.

Hospital official on Wednesday (November 17) says that 9 people were killed and 15 others injured in clashes between insurgents and US troops in Ramadi.

Mortar attack hits the police headquarters in Baquba on Wednesday (November 17), but no casualties were reported. Earlier, on Tuesday (November 16) night, insurgents had attacked the building, triggering a short gunbattle. No casualties were reported then as well.

One person was killed and three others wounded in clashes between US forces and insurgents in Baquba on Wednesday (November 17).

Two Iraqi National Guardsmen were killed and three others wounded after a roadside bomb attack near a National Guard convoy in Iskandariyah on Wednesday (November 17).

Police said on Wednesday (November 17) that 31 Iraqi policemen have been kidnapped in raid in Rutba town, Al-Anbar governorate near Jordan. Government could not confirm report – conflicting reports say they were released.

A US soldier was killed in a car bomb at a checkpoint in Fallujah on Tuesday (November 16). Other/Comments Saqlawiya Health Organization workers from nearby Saqlawiya town begin collection of corpses in Fallujah amid continued clashes between US-led forces and insurgents. (Wednesday, Nov-17-04)

Iraqi Health Ministry dismisses reports of shortage of food, water and medical supplies in Fallujah after visit to the city and main hospital. (Wednesday, Nov- 17-04)

Reports say some civilians searching/waiting in line for aid in Fallujah have been killed by insurgent snipers, prompting concerns from UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (UNHCR). (Tuesday, Nov-16-04)

Iraqi Red Crescent Society (IRCS) has asked US forces and Iraqi government for permission to deliver food, medicine and water to Fallujah. US military says IRCS has permission to aid refugees in towns around Fallujah, but not city itself. IRCS has 7 medical teams ready to go into Fallujah from Amirya town – 150 needy families identified in the city. (Friday, Nov-12-04).

9 Babil governorate imposes 10-hour curfew on Hillah, governorate’s biggest city, from 6:00pm Thursday (November 11) to 4:00am Friday (November 12). (Friday, Nov-12-04)

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)

Kuwaiti Humanitarian Operations Center (HOC) will send 11 trucks of humanitarian aid to Najaf town. Aid includes water tanks and shelter items granted by the Kuwaiti Ministry of Energy. HOC said delivery is first batch of aid for Najaf. (Thursday, Nov- 04-04)

Highway from Ramadi to Jordan remained cut off by US-led forces launching operations in Ramadi. (Thursday, Nov-04-04)

Ministry of Education survey indicates one-third of Iraqi primary schools lack water and sanitation – worst affected in Dhi Qar, Salahaldin and Diyala governorates. Overall enrollment increased in 2003/2004. (Friday, Oct-15-04)

Ministry of Reconstruction to spend US$55 million to repair Najaf government buildings. (Wednesday, Sept-8-04)

Baghdad

Baghdad Coordination Aid agency Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) says it is withdrawing from Iraq due to insecurity. Agency has been involved in dangerous areas, including Fallujah, Najaf and Karbala and Sadr City district, Baghdad. MSF has 90 Iraqi staff and has been in Iraq since December 2002 – foreign staff left for Jordan a month ago. (Thursday, Nov-04-04) Population Population: 6.5 million IDPs 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 No New Information Non-Food Items – No New Information Shelter Water & Sanitation Reconstruction of water, sewer, and power projects restarted in often-volatile Sadr City section of Baghdad (Monday, Nov-08-04)

World Health Organization (WHO) and Environment Ministry agreed to rehabilitate the Central Water Quality Control Lab in Baghad and establish 15 central labs and 30 district labs in central and southern Iraq to benefit 22 million Iraqis. (Tuesday, Oct-05-04) 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].

The US military reports that work to renovate the Al Rashid water treatment station in Zaphernia district in Baghdad began on September 20. The plant provides fresh drinking water to about 250,000 people. (Wednesday, Sept-29-04) Security A car bomb exploded near a civilian convoy between Baghdad and the airport, setting vehicles on fire, reports say on Wednesday (November 17). No other details immediately available.

US-led forces freed unidentified captive Iraqi truck driver during a raid south of Baghdad, US military said on Wednesday (November 17).

In Baghdad, some 3,000 protestors on Wednesday (November 17) peacefully demanded release of 7 followers of Shi’ite Ayatollah Mahmoud al-Hassani, who had been detained by US forces in past week. Other/Comments Baghdad’s international airport remains closed for commercial fights indefinitely, the office of interim Iraqi Prime Minister Iyad Allawi said Sunday (November 14). (Monday, Nov-15-04)

Iraq’s interim government imposed a night curfew on Baghdad until further notice after attacks on Monday (November 8) on churches and a city hospital left at least 16 dead. (Tuesday, Nov-09-04)

Newly refurbished 96-megawatt generator northwest of Baghdad now online, bringing electricity to more than 275,000 homes – part of US$150 million Iraqi and coalition project to bring more than 6 generators online by beginning of next year. (Wednesday, Oct-27-04)

US officials report 3,100 Iraqi schools have been rehabilitated– insecurity contributing to poor conditions. Last year, UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) spent US$15 million on education. In September 2003, UNICEF began delivery of education kits for all Iraqi schools. (Wednesday, Oct-13-04)

Coalition officials report US$10.5 billion set aside for reconstruction funds. Currently, there are 700 projects – officials hope to have 1,000 by end of this year. Completed projects include 5 water treatment plants and 73 health-care facilities. (Wednesday, Oct-13-04)

South Region

Basrah Coordination 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

11 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 World Health Organization (WHO) says preventive and control activities for cholera in Basrah, including distribution of chlorine tablets, are ongoing. (Monday, Nov-08- 04)

Hay Al-Jihad clinic has been opened in area of Al-Amnal Dakhilay, southwest of Basrah city, to serve around 117,000 residents – clinic was built with aid from international NGOs and Multinational Division Forces (MND). Ministry of Health says most of 85 medical centers in Basrah governorate have been renovated. (Tuesday, Nov-02-04).

Chronic malnutrition is affecting about 3 out of 10 children in Iraq, particularly in Basrah and other central and southern governorates. (Tuesday, Sept-7-04) Non-Food Items – No New Information Shelter Water & UK-based Department for International Development (DFID) contributed US$ 34 Sanitation 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 Other/Comments 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 United Nations Office of the Humanitarian Coordinator for Iraq (UNOHCI) is aware of 22 NGOs operating in southern Iraq. Population Population of Al Muthanna: 569,933 Population of Dhi Qar: 1,538,871 Population of Maysan: 848,322 IDP Movement No New Information Food No New Information Health No New Information Non-Food Items – No New Information Shelter Water & Sanitation The Water Department of the governorate of Al Muthana has purchased 26 water tank trucks and 304 feed tanks (worth a total of US$ 3.68 million) with a grassroots 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].

12 grant aid extended by the Japanese government. (Tuesday, Oct-26-04) Security Other/Comments Iraq Ministry of Education study indicates one-third of Iraqi primary schools lack water and sanitation – worst affected in Dhi Qar, Salahaldin and Diyala governorates. Overall enrollment increased in 2003/2004. (Friday, Oct-15-04)

Neighboring Countries’ Humanitarian Activities/Preparations

Jordan

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 November 1 (Tuesday) 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 will 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). Another estimated 1,000 refugees, most of them Iranian Kurds, remain in nearby Al-Karama Refugee Camp, about 38 miles (60 km) away in “no man’s land” between the Iraq and Jordanian border. (Wednesday, Oct-13-04)

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 have created preliminary election register using database of former UN- administered food distribution system for January elections. In cooperation with the Amman Center for Human Rights Studies, the Iraqi government, and a number of Iraqi human rights groups and networks, the Friederich Ebert Foundation is 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).

13 Several NGOs have evacuated their international staff members to Jordan due to on-going violence in Iraq. 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 demining and water projects in Iraq since 2003.

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

UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) continuing to facilitate voluntary repatriation of Iraqis from Iran. Over the past two weeks, 64 people have returned to southern Iraq, and more than 700 have returned to northern Iraq. A total of 18,115 people have returned since August 2003. Repatriations are becoming increasingly difficult with deteriorating winter weather conditions. (Tuesday, Nov-09-04)

UNHCR says that there were 200,000 Iraqi refugees in Iran – 70,000 have since returned to Iraq over past year – repatriations from Iran were suspended in August this year. UNHCR says it does not encourage returns, although it will assist those who insist on doing so. (Friday, Oct-22-04)

Of approximately 250,000 Iraqis living in southern Iranian camps and cities, between 80,000 and 130,000 remain. Most have returned to Iraq’s nine southern governorates on their own without incident. UNHCR has established voluntary repatriation centers and an assistance program. Since last year, the UNHCR has helped about 9,000 return from Iran – out of 14,000 UNHCR repatriated from Iran, Saudi Arabia and Lebanon.

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. UNHCR does not encourage Iraqi refugees to return to Iraq at the present time, but facilitates the repatriation of Iraqis who insist on returning. 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 with UNHCR assistance through the crossing. However, UNHCR suspended the returns after local authorities in northern Iraq expressed concerns over housing shortages. UNHCR has been working with partnering organizations to build houses and other structures and facilities.

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.

14 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

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. The HOC is staffed by Kuwaiti officials and US and British military officers.

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

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. Syrian Foreign Minister Faqrouq al-Shara on Sunday (November 7) 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-19-04)

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.