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12/02/2004:

"UN fears for refugees who fled attack on Falluja"

by Rory McCarthy
Aid agencies and UN officials are growing increasingly concerned about the fate of more than 200,000 Iraqis who fled their homes before the US-led assault on Falluja.

At least 210,000 Iraqis are now living as refugees in deteriorating conditions and are unlikely to be able to return to their badly damaged city for several weeks, according to reports compiled by a UN-led emergency working group.

Families fled to at least nine villages in the desert around Falluja in the weeks before the assault began last month. Others are staying in Baghdad, often with relatives. At least 100 families are camped out at Baghdad University mosque. Access to the refugees "remains sporadic due to insecurity and military operations", said the latest report.

"Shortages in fresh food items and cooking fuel have also been reported. The temperature has dropped, underscoring an urgent need for winterisation items and appropriate shelter," it said.
Full Article: guardian.co.uk