Humanitarian assistance critical part of MNF-I operations
BAGHDAD, Iraq -- The Iraq Security Forces and Multi-National Forces-Iraq supported military assaults against terrorists and foreign fighters in Fallujah, dubbed "Operation al-Fajr," are removing the threat of terrorism, and restoring the rule of law in Fallujah.
Military operations are being conducted in support of and in full partnership with the Iraqi government, as declared by Iraqi Prime Minister Iyad Allawi on Nov. 8.
Multi-National Forces also continue to conduct humanitarian and civil military operations to help improve Iraqi lives, as well as the infrastructure, in many cities and regions across Iraq.
The Iraqi government, in coordination with MNF-I, stands ready to coordinate and resolve any large-scale humanitarian issues that might arise during and after operations in Fallujah and other locations.
Officials emphasize, however, that there is no humanitarian crisis at this time.
"The Iraqi government (specifically, the Ministry of Commerce and Ministry of Industry and Minerals), MNF-I, Multi-National Corps-Iraq, the First Marine Expeditionary Force and the international community are working together, and are prepared in the event it becomes necessary," said a MNF civil military operations official.
Multi-National Forces-Iraq is also prepared to coordinate Non-Governmental Organization movement into the operating environment should it be required.
Besides the resources available in Iraq, humanitarian assistance centers in bordering Jordan and Kuwait are also staffed, equipped and poised to respond and assist in any humanitarian situation.
"Coordination and communication with all parties is on-going," the MNF official said.
Already demonstrating their commitment to providing medical care for the Iraqi people, Iraq's 36th Commando Battalion successfully secured the Fallujah General Hospital on Nov. 7, freeing it from terrorist control and ensuring its availability to all citizens.
Out of a population of nearly 300,000, officials are tracking an estimated 150,000 Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) around Fallujah.
The United Nations defines IDPs as persons who have been forced to flee their homes suddenly or unexpectedly in large numbers as a result of armed conflict, and who are within the territory of their own country.
Initial reports indicate that these individuals are doing well, and are either staying with relatives, or making use of public buildings or shelters until operations are complete.
The international community continues to assess the situation in Fallujah and across the country, looking for indications of problems, and stands ready to implement the necessary measures to help the people of Fallujah, and other stressed areas.
Although the worldwide media focus is on current Fallujah military operations, MNF-I continues to conduct stability and security operations throughout Iraq, and remains prepared to provide timely, large-scale humanitarian assistance when and if it becomes necessary.
Lastly, Iraqi government and MNF-I sponsored reconstruction work began in the northern part of Thawra, where more than 8,000 Iraqi citizens went back to work on Nov. 6.
Release #041109f
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