Iraq War Statistics a Benchmark for Progress in 2007

Casualty figures and data on Iraqi infrastructure have been recently released showing the contrast between the human cost of the war, in terms of casualties, and the social cost to Iraq, in terms of degradation of facilities and services. This information gives a virtual snapshot of where we are now in Iraq, and provides key result indicators for progress in the coming year.



The potable water and sewer numbers have showed a positive trend, but not nearly as much as cell phone service. I also have to wonder how much of this growth would have occurred anyway, or even at a faster pace, without the war.

Oil production and security is obviously a major issue. The nation's only source of income cut by half. Unemployment figures are not cited, but I have heard it is over 30%. I'm sure the number of internal refugees and increase in Iraqis living abroad, a combined total of over 3 million citizens, is contributing to the country's economic problems.

Overall, some major challenges lie ahead for the pacification and gentrification of Iraq. To me, these challenges call into question the administration's rationalizations for substantiation of the troop surge. We are assured of a rise in the casualty figure, we must have immediate progress to show for putting more troops in harm's way. Not to mention the issue of funding, with a request reportedly coming for another $100 billion for this year and $150 billion for next year, or something like that.

In any event, these figures provide a much needed benchmark for tangible progress in Iraq, and key result indicators for achieving it without further delay or escalation of conflict in the region.

[edit on 3-2-2007 by Icarus Rising]