Iraq Crisis Update

The humanitarian crisis in Iraq is extremely grave. The complete lack of security affects the population in almost every aspect of their lives.

Baghdad and other cities have suffered regular bombings, disrupting everyday life. Some cities have been placed under curfew. People are faced with increasing challenges in accessing basics such as food, water and health services.

Violence
The recent violence in Fallujah began on November 8th , and has lasted for over a week so far. Families trapped inside the embattled city have been living without food, water, electricity or medical supplies. The numbers of civilians killed or injured are expected to be high.

Although over two-thirds of the city’s population fled the violence, anywhere up to 2,000 families are believed to still be trapped within Fallujah. The impact is greatest on the young. Some residents have reported that their children have not eaten for days, and are suffering from diarrhoea.

Many of those who remained behind were the heads of families, afraid their homes would be looted if left empty. Residents have lived through days of heavy bombardment, unable to sleep for fear of attack.

Destruction
Hundreds of houses have been flattened, roads have been torn up by tanks, and most buildings have smashed windows, bullet holes or torn down walls. Several mosques have also been reduced to rubble.

Aid trucks carrying food, water and medical supplies have been unable to deliver humanitarian supplies to the city’s residents.

Displaced
At least 150,000 people fled Fallujah and sought refuge in cramped make-shift camps in surrounding villages, or Baghdad . The poor sanitation and crowded conditions in these camps have led to illness amongst the displaced population.

Islamic Relief
Islamic Relief in Iraq is continuing to help people in need despite the increasing violence.

Basic relief aid has been distributed to displaced families wherever possible, and staff continue to closely monitor the humanitarian needs of the cities suffering from the latest violence .

Please help reduce the suffering of the people of Iraq .

Islamic Relief will be bringing you regular updates on our work in Iraq.

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