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I went to work today and people were talking about the elections. They were saying they are afraid to vote because the polling centres could be bombed. We are feeling helpless.

Yesterday three men were killed in our street in front of everyone and in the middle of the day. No one dared to interfere. The bodies were left lying in the street covered with blood. We didn't know who they were or why they were murdered. Our neighbour called the ambulance but they said it wasn't safe so they didn't come. After a few hours a car came and took the bodies away.

We are worried all the time here. My mother prays almost all the time for our safety. During these hard times most Iraqis are becoming closer to God, praying and becoming believers in fate. Most of the time we pray at home because it is too unsafe to go to the mosques. Even places of worship are being attacked.

I hope a day comes when we can live in peace. This is the wish of all good people here.

Link:

It is the last day of the inoculation campaign, and having finished our work, we headed back to Baghdad. While passing over a makeshift bridge, we witnessed a car chase. We had to stop immediately and wait for it to pass. The car that was being pursued had one passenger and when the other car caught up with it, there was an exchange of fire. We hid behind our seats and hoped for the best. The driver being chased was eventually killed. We later learned that he was a recent recruit to the new Iraqi National Guards. We just waited and prayed for things to calm down.

After a while, we resumed our journey. We decided to use the express highway, even though it is often closed by the Americans because it has been the scene of a number of explosions. Most drivers avoid it and instead use the older Hilla Road.

The good news for us at least is that the Iraqi health ministry has declared the national inoculation programme a success. I really cannot believe that I have actually completed my part of it and that I have managed to make it home in one piece. The painful memory of these last five days of work outside Baghdad will take a while to go away though.

Posted by BBC Host 30 November
We've received more than 200 comments about the log from readers - the vast majority have been complimentary and positive, but a few have been less so.

The contributors and readers are starting to engage in what we hope will be a growing dialogue. In the first entry in today's log, Rana Imad responds directly to a question put to her by several readers about who she blames for the general insecurity and whether US forces should withdraw from Iraq.

Several readers have asked how we found and selected the contributors to the log. Most of our contributors are people who have written into the BBC News website or BBC Arabic.com through our Have Your Say articles and have been invited to write for this log. A smaller number are people contacted by Iraqi colleagues at the BBC Arabic World Service.

As promised yesterday, we are working to gather and publish contributions from people outside the Baghdad region.

We decided to sell our car. It has become too expensive to maintain. We now rely on taxis, and even though they are expensive - the fare from my area in al-Dora to Karada in downtown Baghdad is about 3,000 dinars - taxis are still preferable to driving your own car. My husband is also reluctant to use the government car, which he is entitled to, because government cars are always a target.

Yesterday, I got into a political argument with one my neighbours. Our area, al-Dora, has many former army officers and Saddam loyalists, and everyone knows who they are. This particular neighbour was bemoaning the lack of security and said that security was better during Saddam's rule. I could not keep my mouth shut and we argued.

Later on, another neighbour told me to watch what I say to this woman because her family has strong connection to the Saddam's Republican Guards. During Saddam's rule, we never trusted our neighbours. No one did. Now, we are still afraid, but this time of the armed groups and the terrorists who are living amongst us in our residential areas.

Link:

I was on my way to the centre of Baghdad and was about to cross the Andlous Bridge when suddenly, a bomb went off under the bridge. Thank God, I was not hurt. I stopped of course, as did the other drivers, and waited for the police to arrive, which they did eventually.

I understand that two people were killed in the attack. What was the purpose of this act? I saw no coalition military personnel or any foreigner around when this bomb went off, so who was the target? We have become almost used to these events. Iraqis are always on the look out for anything suspicious.

I am lucky in that my house has a high external wall, which gives us some protection. I also trust my neighbour to a certain extent. We have both agreed to share responsibility for our security. Our area has seen its fair share of gunfights. These things happen right in front of us all the time, but no one seems to intervene because people are worried about the safety of their families and loved ones. I don't know if I will live to see tomorrow, but I still look forward to the dawning of a new day.

Meetings and maintenance. That's my Sunday. My men and I were scheduled to follow up on some rebuilding projects but a gradual decrease in power in my vehicle was finally diagnosed and repaired. Obviously, mechanical breakdowns in certain parts of Iraq take on an ominous quality within minutes. So, we'll go back out tomorrow. I have adjusted our work week to coincide with the rhythms of Iraq: important meetings involving local leaders should be accomplished on Saturday or Sunday. However, if we're just patrolling we can accomplish a lot on a Friday. No traffic.

Traffic in Baghdad is chaotic and occasionally desperate. It's as if all the worst traffic offenders in the world were sent to live for one year in Iraq. The real culprit is the uncontrolled explosion of privately owned vehicles trying to fit onto Baathist highways. American soldiers, most of whom have never left the United States, can often appear spooked or intimidated by the disorder of an Iraqi traffic circle. Iraqis can sense impending violence or the threat of it. The combination of these two national traits can cause tragic misunderstandings.

After our first month in Iraq, we learned to avoid the high speed highways and stick to the commercial streets. We are comfortable and unthreatened on the smaller roads, and most importantly they are free of improvised explosive devices. If you need to move and the traffic is gridlocked, Iraqis respect Americans who dismount their vehicles, lower their weapons and make eye contact. I am fully aware that this might be obvious to most of you. However, if you take any nation's infantry soldier and suddenly tell him to move through a built up urban area far from home, they would have real difficulty. If Belgians overran Los Angeles at 7AM on a weekday morning, they'd be pointing their weapons too.

Anyway... The nine months of experience we have has led to us being far more comfortable with two vehicles on bustling Karradah street than with 20 vehicles on a highway.

All of that is simply prologue. After I arrive in my area I have to begin dealing with The Adult Iraqi Male. (It may be helpful to admit something about Americans at this point: we want everybody to love us. We don't understand those who do not. It's our national Achilles Heel. Not my problem, however.) I discovered in Bosnia that you can rebuild a school, coach the basketball team and heal the sick, but if they've decided to hate you, they'll hate you. The trick is to stop caring whether they like you. After all, you know who built the school and the kids have a roof, so who needs more friends.

Forearmed with this experience, I began my work in Iraq. I have open, blunt, name-calling debates with every flavour of cleric or Shaikh. If they tell me what they're really thinking, I don't take it personally. They're still getting new sewer pipes or a girl's school or whatever. My best relationships are with Iraqis who hate me, but want to see a new government and reconstruction. I tell them, "I have plenty of friends at home and my dogs worship me, I just want to leave this place better than I found it." They can work with that.

"Is there crime in America?" is a frequent question. "Saddam had better security," is another belaboured point. Of course there's crime in the US, I tell them. People are free to abuse their rights. There was crime during Saddam's time. I bet bridges were rebuilt faster as well. The incentive to remain alive would motivate me in my job too. Unfortunately, the bridge contractor only has the good of Iraqis to provide momentum now. I once had a man ask why I didn't execute inefficient contractors. I assured him, it wasn't for lack wanting.

Iraq is far better off and it's people are getting it. As the days go by, and the satellite TV keeps bringing the rest of the world into virtually every home, they are getting it. It won't look like Canada or Holland or any other democracy you care to mention. It'll be unique and Iraqi.

Last week, at the end of a long day, we stopped next to the eroding mud walls of a 4,000 year old walled city called Besmiya. It was garrisoned by Emperor Julian circa 363 AD. We strolled along its crumbling walls and my men, always soldiers, instantly recognised it as an excellent position. We surveyed for miles without impediment. The shadows were lengthening as I watched the outlines of this century's weapons darken an ancient fortification. I was afraid that we were just another army in Babylon. I hope there's a difference.

Some readers of my contributions to this log have asked whether I thought it would be better if the Americans left. I don't think that the withdrawal of the American forces would be wise. It would make the situation much worse. But I hope they are more careful and show more concern for our safety. When US forces face danger themselves, often they shoot randomly and innocent people are hurt. In my opinion, if they leave now a civil war could follow in Iraq.

Some people also asked about what it was like being a woman in Iraq at such a time. I know that there is a lot of pressure on women here from some religious extremists, especially those who do not wear veils. This includes both Muslims and Christians. There have also been assaults in some parts of the country.

But, as I said, we do not leave home unless accompanied by male relatives, such as my father or brother unless it is absolutely necessary. Sometimes I feel that I'm imprisoned in my home, but I hope that this is temporary. We try to keep our heads down and avoid trouble.

These are some of the comments we have received so far on this log.

Some refer to the previous log:

From BBCArabic.com: To Bryan Suits: I think what you say is a bit unfair. There are many members of the US armed forces in Iraq who do not want to know anything about us, or find out what information we may have. I very much hope that you will be able to read these few lines of mine and maybe you can tell your soldiers to treat Iraqis a bit better. Not all Iraqis are terrorists. Not all Iraqis are Baathists. Talk to the Iraqis - they may have the information that you need. Thanks.
Ali Hassan, Baghdad

This comment is regarding a comment sent in by Angela Richards of Brooklyn, New York. She said that she never realised how terrifying the journey from the airport to the city centre was. "It makes you wonder, if people are unsafe in such huge convoys how can ordinary Iraqi cope?" she asked. The answer is very simple. Let me express in an analogy: If a huge elephant enters a city, which it has no business to be in, and occupies all the space and causes havoc, then what are the people supposed to do? How should they react?
Ummi, Chicago, USA

I go through blogs everyday and I can imagine how hard it is to sleep peacefully for a few hours in Baghdad. I think there is a crucial phase in any war or occupation - and I sense it is close by for Iraq - when ordinary Iraqis take matters into their own hands, refuse the demands of all terrorists and demand they leave Iraq. It would be like a revolution. This message can be hammered home if all the clerics and mullahs stop fuelling anger against the occupation and concern themselves with the wellbeing and safety of Iraqis.
Balaji Pamalpadi, Niagara Falls, Canada

Lt Suits: I love your radio show when you are here in the US and also have been lucky enough catch a couple of your phone-ins. I think I heard you mention in one of those calls a few months ago that the most important thing you could hand out to people over there would be pocket sized copies of the US Constitution. Well, I don't have any of those, but I do have a pretty complete, though old, set of the United States Code which I would be happy to box up and ship over to any of the legal people you might know and work with over there. If a person was going to start a legal system in a country that really hasn't had a modern one, this might be a good reference guide for setting forth the structures that seem to work for us and could be a good resource for Iraqi lawyers. Let me know if I can help. Happy (belated) Thanksgiving. Please be safe and have a good Christmas, too. Please know that there are an awful lot of people back here who are very proud of your sacrifice and grateful for your service to our Country and who are willing to pitch in if we can to make your time over there as comfortable and safe as possible. We just need to be told how to do so.
Bob Penfield, Everett Washington USA

This insight into life in Iraq is so important for those of us far away from the conflict and the daily struggle. Today, my major concern was whether I was going to catch my train! You all put that into perspective. Media attention tends to focus on the politics and conflict which means we overlook the plight of ordinary Iraqis - most of whom I am sure want to live in peace and security. I have tremendous respect and admiration for all of you and hope you all stay safe and secure.
Alison Hubbard, Bristol, UK

This is a great idea. We in the US pride ourselves on individual freedom but dialogue like this can only be found on the internet and not in legitimate news, at least not under our present government.
Jim Kappus, Kansas City, USA

Reading blogs from Iraq is now an integral part of my news reading. The bias of "armchair warriors" and "peace-at-all-costs" pundits from the major news outlets do not give me enough insight into what is going on in Iraq.
Christian, Montreal, Canada

An excellent idea to hear the voices of ordinary Iraqis. However, as pointed out by many contributors, the vast majority of Iraqis cannot contribute as they lack the means to do so. How about sending out some form of simple communication technology to villages, and asking the "common people" their views. Of course there is a danger that these will be biased by local pressure (occupiers or insurgents) but overall it should provide a more balanced perspective.
Dr Simon Taylor, Birmingham UK

From BBCArabic.com: Yasmin's account reflects the life as lived by us Iraqis. But when are other Arabs wake up and realise the reality of what is happening in Iraq? The Americans removed Saddam from his "throne" but his apparatus is still alive and well. This is the heart of the matter.
Jasim al-Miflih, Samawa, Iraq

From BBCArabic.com: Iraq is going through some tough times right now. Apart from the almost daily explosions and missiles shot by criminals and terrorists, there are shortages in petrol and electricity. So how do you think that Iraqis would feel under these circumstances? Did you expect them to be happy?
Samir, Baghdad

I admire Yasmin for her efforts and bravery. I enjoyed reading her entry in the journal. I myself long to assist in humanitarian medical efforts abroad but I disagree with many of the political views of these needy countries and would fear for my safety and that of my team. But, nonetheless, it is good to know that some aid is getting through.
Tess, New York City, New York, USA

These are reflections of a highly selected sample of people living in Iraq. It includes only persons who read and write English and have an access to the internet. It would be extremely unwise to make any conclusions out of them. Nonetheless, very interesting to read.
M Elamin, Gillingham,UK

I feel sorry for Iraqi people. We had a similar situation a few years ago. Now, after the collapse of Taleban, everybody is optimistic about the future. Now we have an elected president, a well trained army and police - though yet to be completed in size and quality. Maybe the big difference between Iraq and Afghanistan is that the US forces are not viewed as occupiers.
Mohammad A Quraishi, Kabul, Afghanistan

I cannot imagine what sort of horror and torture Iraqis have to go through daily. I feel that their voices and suffering must be made known to the world before any policies are implemented by some politicians who are not living in that country. I salute those brave Iraqis. Please continue to air their stories, BBC!
Joyce, Malaysia

There are many Iraqis posting on the net and anyone who wants to can find blogs and such to get a taste for what it's like for civilians. I fault the BBC for concentrating only on Baghdad; opinions are more diversely expressed if polled from a wider geographic area. I find the responses to the Iraqis the most interesting. It seems that whether supportive of the war or not, everyone sees what they want in the Iraqi postings. It's amazing how genuine reports from Iraq do nothing to change those of us with strong views.
Paul Marek, Saskatoon Canada

I sincerely hope that Sarab al-Delaymi will be able to work as a school teacher again very soon and in secure surroundings. Meanwhile, how about setting up a temporary school for the children whose school has been closed? It is not an ideal situation, but better than nothing. Education is very important and these young ones deserve every bit of a chance of a bright future.
Esther Angel, London, UK

I will be going to Iraq shortly (for the election) and the first-hand accounts regarding security (or lack thereof) in the International or Green Zone and the airport are very helpful. I believe democratisation is the one step needed to begin the process of securing Iraq. The people need to believe their government is legitimate and elections will provide this legitimacy. While I do fear for my own safety, as one who was in favour of this war (although not how it has been executed), I feel obliged to put my money where my mouth is. That is why I will go to Iraq next month, regardless of potential hazards.
Chris, Alexandria, Virginia, USA

This is excellent and much needed to give the rest of the world a better sense of what really happens in Iraq. Thanks for doing this and keep it coming.
Daniel Richards, Mimbres, New Mexico, USA

I was always curious to what life was like for the Iraqi citizens. I must say that from those stories I have read, you Iraqis are truly brave individuals. I am a New Yorker who lived through 9/11, and I cannot possibly imagine what life would be like in such conditions and dealing with such everyday threats. I try to picture what it would be like if I had to travel like that from Kennedy Airport to Times Square in an armoured bus or to be forced stay home during the holidays and not see my family. I know that imagining what life would be like does not even come close to what life is actually like. I honour the bravery of Iraqis and I pray for a peaceful and stable future.
Bill Savio, Staten Island, New York, USA

What I would love to know is what most ordinary Iraqi's think about the "insurgents" and what they think should be done to save Iraq and the region from this deepening quagmire? Is there any league of Arab or Muslim nations that could secure Iraq when the huge resources of the US cannot? Is there anyone out there who has any alternative plan at all?
Ciaran Mundy, Bristol, UK

I have been in working in Iraq since January, moving between Baghdad and my office at the airport. The security is situation is getting worse daily. The coalition troops are well known for shooting carelessly if they are nervous. On the way to the airport, my car has been shot at by US soldiers for no reason and even though they put tanks and more patrols on the airport road, car bombs are daily events. Yes there is a big threat by terrorist but there is more threat for us who work close to military camps from friendly fire and from the continuous mortars fired by the "resistance".
Wawa Ambewe, Baghdad, Iraq

It's great that the British are allowing people to read the real thing... it will help each other to know about Iraq, and everyday occurrences that take place. I pray for these Iraqi people, and that peace will prevail in their beautiful country.
Margaret Griffin, Vancouver Canada

Thank you for doing this. Not a day goes by without our wondering how the average Iraqi is coping. In war, there are always profiteers, and I would like to hear the views of those Iraqis as well. Are the very wealthy affected? And what about people in the International or Green Zone, do they feel truly safe? Finally, only we Americans will call people fighting in their own country insurgents and terrorists. Maybe that is what the Brits called us during the US Revolution.
W. Lawrence, Bayonne, New Jersey

According to your commentary you have gained much in terms of salary and amenities in Iraq but that you're not sure you are better off. I would hope that Iraqis understand that it is not the Americans or British who are killing people or who are causing the problem with violence... it is the insurgents who don't want to set Iraq on a path of self-governance and freedom. If these terrorists would go away, I'm sure Iraq would be a much better place than under Saddam. The change you are undergoing will take time. Be patient. Freedom comes at a cost. The alternative, which is tyranny, you already know.
Philip, Columbus, Ohio, USA

I never realised just how terrifying a journey from an airport to the centre of a city could be! How many people make this journey? It makes you wonder, if people are unsafe in such huge convoys how can ordinary Iraqis cope?
Angela Richards, Brooklyn, NY, USA

Well done the BBC. Keep it up. The world needs to hear from real people in Iraq, not just the spin we get fed daily by those with vested interests.
John Farmer, Henley-on-Thames, UK

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