Removing explosions, restoring sustenance in Al-Karma

Al-Karma, a city located in western Iraq within Anbar province, is characterized by its fertile soil, making it very suitable for agricultural activities. For generations it served as a well-maintained 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 the Levant (ISIL), turning the peaceful city into a battlefield. The presence of ISIL forced many families to leave their homes and flee for their lives.

During the subsequent military operation, ISIL laid large areas of the city with landmines to prevent the Iraqi army from retaking it, which made the security situation more difficult and threatened the safety of its people.

After liberation, the city remained a dangerous, uninhabitable zone.

In 2020, the United Nations Mine Action System (UNMAS) in Iraq initiated mining operations in Al-Karma, including permit operations and explosives hazard education.

Over the next two years, UNMAS Iraq successfully cleared two million square meters, safely removed 1287 objects, and provided educational activities to hundreds of individuals. These are the first steps in facilitating and supporting the rehabilitation of the city, enabling the safe and dignified return of internally displaced persons (IDPs).

Ali Jasim, the head teacher of the local school, said, “In 2017, the school was completely contaminated with explosives; it was not possible to use the center as a safe place for children or teachers; we had to move to preschools for a while.”

The demolition operations paved the way for the new construction of not only schools, but also mosques, factories, and many residences in Al-Karma.

Mohammed Khalid, the owner of the factory and a resident of Al-Karma, said, “We are grateful for the efforts made by UNMAS Iraq. My family and I could not return to our home after the liberation like other IDPs. After the removal operations, we returned to our home, and I reopened my factory.

Al-Karma stands as a testament to the resilience of its people, who, despite facing great hardships, find solace in the knowledge of their surroundings, drawing strength from the enduring bonds of community that have stood the test of time.