Above: Violence in Baghdad is down 80% in last 6 months

A different mood has swept though the capital of Iraq this new year. Dancing, partying and the likes of which have not been seen since before the invasion of 2003.

Hotels and venues in the city were full as people take advantage of the more open and positive atmosphere that the lull in violence over recent months has provided.

Above: Baghdad more peaceful, click on map to enlarge

An 80% decline in the peak violence has brought hope and optimism to the Iraqi people.

Mr. Tamer and Iraqi citizen said, ” all the bloodshed , car bombs suicide attacks have subsided, this gives the people great hope for 2008″, still the interviewee did not give his first name as there is still an air of fear in the country.

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