Region | Iraq
US set to hand over Green Zone to Iraq
Many Iraqis cannot wait until the Green Zone in Baghdad is turned over to Iraqi forces, as a part of the implementation of the newly adopted security agreement between the US and Iraq.
- By Basil Adas, Correspondent
- Published: 00:41 December 2, 2008
Baghdad: Many Iraqis cannot wait until the Green Zone in Baghdad is turned over to Iraqi forces, as a part of the implementation of the newly adopted security agreement between the US and Iraq.
"My apartment is located in an area near the Republican Palace, since 2003 it has taken me hours to reach my home because of difficult treatment by US guards," Ahlam Aziz, an official at the Ministry of Science told Gulf News.
According to the security agreement reached between the two parties, Iraq will assume full responsibility over the Green Zone early in the new year.
"Although I worked for the Iraqi government, my entry into the Green Zone was subject to approval by US forces which infringes on the sovereignty of my country. I have had many fights with US security officers, so when they leave I will be happy," Rashid Haidar said.
The Green Zone expands over 10 square kilometres and houses hundreds of tanks, armoured vehicles and combat helicopters.
Also, many senior Iraqi officials reside within the Green Zone, including the house of Prime Minister Nouri Al Maliki and international media offices.
"I cant wait to have access to streets around the Presidential Palace because I haven't seen these streets for five years," Motazz Abdul Khalek, a homeowner in the Al Zewia area opposite the Green Zone told said. According to some Iraqi official sources, there is a government plan to renovate the area of the ministerial offices.
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