IRAQ: A stark reminder of living conditions
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A new report from the International Committee of the Red Cross is a reminder of how bleak living conditions remain despite gains in security since autumn.
The Red Cross painted a portrait of hospitals lacking doctors, medicine and equipment. Doctors have been targeted by various armed groups and criminal gangs.
In addition, most Iraqis still lack access to clean water and sanitation.
Despite the improvements in security, Iraqi ministries struggle with corruption, competition among political parties and various threats.
The United States has spent most of its funds for reconstruction, and its efforts as well have been marred by corruption scandals and inefficiency.
— Ned Parker in Baghdad