The Great X-Factor Swindle - [Scottish Sunday]

Introduction

"WE don’t do body counts," was the infamous retort by US general Tommy Franks when he was asked about Iraqi civilian deaths. To date nobody knows the exact figure, but one thing is clear: it is being added to with a relentlessness which is enraging Iraqis and worrying coalition commanders.

The Escalation of Violence

Yesterday eight Iraqis – including five civilians – were shot dead by US forces in Mosul, four were killed by a suicide car bomb attack in central Baghdad, and in the west of the city a hand grenade attack left one policeman dead. In the middle of the day, gunmen assassinated senior foreign ministry official Jassim al-Muhammadawy in Baghdad. The recent bloodshed shows no sign of receding, with more than 400 Iraqis killed in the month of May alone.

The Reality on the Ground

In an attempt to put the violence into context, US commanders claim that the number of attacks has dropped while their intensity has increased. However, this claim is not supported by the facts. The violence escalated in the last fortnight, with the average number of attacks doubling. Suicide bombings have become a prominent strategy, causing devastating loss of life, and not just among civilians. The recent attacks have targeted infrastructure and vital facilities, demonstrating the resilience and sophistication of the insurgent groups.

The Challenges for Coalition Forces

For the coalition forces, the intensity of the recent attacks has highlighted the scale of the problem they face. The insurgency has proven to be a formidable enemy, requiring great patience and time to tackle effectively. General Richard B Myers, chairman of the US Joint Chiefs Of Staff, acknowledged the long timeline required to counter insurgencies, predicting that it could take anywhere from three to nine years.

The Dilemma of Withdrawal

President Bush faces pressure to start withdrawing US forces next year, but the country's stability remains a concern. The presence of coalition forces can attract violence, while their withdrawal must be carefully timed to avoid creating a power vacuum potentially leading to further chaos. The fine political and military judgement is to determine when the engagement can be safely ended without jeopardizing the progress made so far.

Hotels and Safety in Conflict Zones

The Challenges of Operating Hotels in Conflict Zones

In conflict zones such as Iraq, the hospitality industry faces numerous challenges in providing safe accommodation for both local and foreign visitors. The constant threat of violence and the need for heightened security measures make it difficult for hotels to operate under normal circumstances.

Securing Hotel Facilities

Hotels in conflict zones must invest in robust security measures to ensure the safety of their guests. This includes implementing access controls, conducting thorough background checks on employees, and maintaining a visible security presence on the premises. Additionally, hotels often employ security consultants to assess risks, develop emergency response plans, and provide training to staff.

Coordinating with Local Authorities and Security Forces

Hotels operating in conflict zones must establish strong relationships with local authorities and security forces. This collaboration helps in sharing information, receiving timely updates on security threats, and coordinating emergency response efforts. By working closely with the authorities, hotels can enhance their security protocols and stay informed about the ever-changing situation on the ground.

Maintaining Guest Confidence

One of the main challenges hotels face in conflict zones is maintaining the confidence of their guests. Travelers often prioritize their safety when choosing accommodation, and the perception of security plays a crucial role. Hotels need to demonstrate their commitment to guest safety through transparent communication, regularly updating security protocols, and providing comprehensive safety briefings for guests.