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 While few Iraqis are free to move about their embattled country, non-Iraqi civilians working or studying there are heading toward the borders—and to safety. Hundreds of thousands of Iraqis and “third-country nationals” are living in countries bordering Iraq, particularly Syria and Jordan. In addition, the American and British armies expect some two million people to be displaced from their homes by the end of the war in Iraq.
Last week, busloads of Sudanese, Egyptian, Sri Lankan and other East African nationals living in Iraq arrived at camps in Ar-Ruwayshid across the border in Jordan. Relief agencies expect thousands more to arrive in the coming weeks. World Vision is funding the food program at a camp designated for these “third-country nationals,” who will eventually be sent to their homes in Africa and Asia.
“Over the past four months, World Vision and other aid groups have been praying for peace, but preparing to respond in the event of war,” said Steve Matthews, World Vision relief communications manager. “While no one knows how many refugees will arrive in which of the countries bordering Iraq, we are ready for a variety of relief scenarios.”
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