Danger Points on Road Travel in Iraq

There continues to be the need to utilize both armoured and un-armoured vehicles in Iraq, which need to travel over vast distances. Travelling is still fraught with dangers, especially the road from the border of Jordan to Baghdad, with the main area of concern around Al Ramadi. At the time of writing, there are daily ambushes and attacks occurring on unsuspecting vehicles along this route. Even though a few US military patrols have been seen in the area, their presence is not deterring local armed factions from conducting what seems to be a very profitable business.

Most media use the road between Baghdad and Kuwait, which is currently an established MSR (Military Supply Route). This road has US forces using it regularly which provides a deterrent to potential hostile groups from committing banditry.

However, latest intelligence needs to be obtained on a daily basis about its safety. It is rumoured locally that as soon as the US Forces leave the area tribesmen will establish illegal checkpoints along the route with the aim of taking vehicles, possessions and anything else of value from anyone caught on that road.

We urge all media companies to make their staff in the area aware of this issue now to prevent staff being stopped and robbed or worse. If not using advisors it is strongly recommended for those wishing to use this route to obtain up-to-date intelligence about its safety prior to departure.