In the aftermath of the war against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) in Iraq, unexploded ordnance (UXO) continues to pose a significant threat to civilians. These deadly remnants of war have claimed countless lives and caused devastating injuries, highlighting the long-lasting impact of conflict on communities long after the fighting has ended.
The presence of UXO in Iraq is a direct result of the intense fighting that took place during the war against ISIL. As coalition forces battled to retake territory from the terrorist group, airstrikes and ground operations left behind a dangerous legacy of unexploded bombs, rockets, and other munitions. These UXO are often hidden beneath the rubble of destroyed buildings or buried in the ground, making them difficult to detect and remove.
The consequences of coming into contact with UXO can be catastrophic. Civilians, particularly children who are naturally curious and unaware of the dangers, are at risk of being killed or maimed if they accidentally disturb or handle these deadly devices. The explosive power of UXO is such that even a small piece of shrapnel can cause serious injury or death.
Despite efforts by humanitarian organizations and government agencies to clear UXO from affected areas, progress has been slow and the scale of the problem remains immense. The sheer volume of UXO scattered across Iraq makes it a daunting task to locate and safely dispose of these hazardous remnants of war. In addition, ongoing security concerns and limited resources have hampered clearance efforts, leaving many communities at risk.
One of the most heavily affected areas is Mosul, Iraq’s second-largest city, which witnessed some of the fiercest fighting during the war against ISIL. The Old City, in particular, is littered with UXO, posing a grave danger to residents who have returned to rebuild their lives amidst the ruins. Children playing in the streets or families trying to salvage belongings from their destroyed homes are especially vulnerable to the hidden threat of UXO.
In response to the ongoing crisis, humanitarian organizations such as the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) have been working tirelessly to clear UXO from affected areas and raise awareness about the dangers they pose. Through risk education programs and community outreach initiatives, these organizations aim to prevent further casualties and ensure that civilians are informed about how to stay safe in areas contaminated by UXO.
Despite these efforts, much more needs to be done to address the problem of UXO in Iraq. Increased funding and support for clearance operations are essential to accelerate the pace of removal and reduce the risk to civilians. In addition, greater coordination between government agencies, humanitarian organizations, and local communities is needed to ensure a comprehensive and sustainable approach to dealing with UXO.
The legacy of war in Iraq is not just measured in terms of lives lost or buildings destroyed but also in the hidden danger that lurks beneath the surface. Unexploded ordnance continues to maim and kill innocent civilians, casting a shadow over the country’s recovery and reconstruction efforts. It is imperative that urgent action be taken to address this ongoing threat and protect the lives of those who have already suffered far too much as a result of conflict.