Al-Karma, a city in western Iraq within the Anbar governorate, is characterized by its rich and fertile soil, making it highly suitable for agricultural activities. For generations it served as a cherished home for a large community, fostering a strong sense of belonging and comfort.
Due to its strategic proximity to the capital, Baghdad, Al-Karma was occupied by the Islamic State of Iraq and Levant (ISIL), transforming the once peaceful city into a battleground. ISIL presence forced countless families to abandon their homes and flee to save their lives.
During the subsequent military operation, ISIL implanted vast areas of the city with improvised landmines to prevent the Iraqi army from reclaiming it, which further complicated the security situation and threatened the safety of its people.
After its liberation, the city remained a hazardous, uninhabitable area.
In 2020, the United Nations Mine Action System (UNMAS) in Iraq initiated mine action operations in Al-Karma, including clearance and explosive ordnance risk education activities.
Over the following two years, UNMAS Iraq successfully cleared two million square meters, safely removed 1287 items, and provided education activities for hundreds of individuals. These are the first steps in enabling and supporting the rehabilitation of the city, facilitating the safe and dignified return of internally displaced persons (IDPs).
Ali Jasim, the local school headmaster, said, “In 2017, the school was fully contaminated with explosive ordnance; it was not possible to use the facility as a safe place for children or teachers; we had to move to prefab schools temporarily.”
Clearance operations paved the way for the reconstruction of not just the school, but also mosques, factories, and numerous residences throughout Al-Karma.
Mohammed Khalid, a factory owner and resident of Al-Karma, said, “We are grateful for the efforts made by UNMAS Iraq. My family and I couldn’t return to our house after the liberation like other IDPs. After the clearance operations, we returned to our house, and I reopened my factory.”
Al-Karma stands as a testament to the resilience of its people, who, despite facing severe difficulties, find solace in the familiarity of their surroundings, drawing strength from enduring bonds of community that have stood the test of time.
