The Green Zone in Baghdad is one of Iraqis famous high-security bubble, which include important sites such as the US Embassy and Saddam Hussein's former palace.
The Green Zone in Iraq is Baghdad’s famous high-security bubble.
But what exactly is it? And how does it look today?
Well, it’s first and foremost one of the most well-known and heavily fortified areas in the world.
Located in the heart of Baghdad, the Green Zone has been the centre of political power and international presence since the US-led invasion in 2003.
Did you know that the Green Zone is not actually the official name?
The official name is the International Zone. But almost everyone still calls it the Green Zone.
This place has seen war, diplomacy, protests, and oddly enough, ice cream trucks. There was once even a Burger King inside the Green Zone, complete with delivery service to soldiers stationed nearby.
Yes, the Green Zone has its quirks, too.
The Green Zone is a heavily guarded district in central Baghdad, covering about 10 square kms on the west bank of the Tigris River.
It is surrounded by high concrete blast walls, barbed wire, and multiple checkpoints.
It was originally established as the secure headquarters of the Coalition Provisional Authority after the fall of Saddam Hussein.
Outside its walls is the “Red Zone”.
This is basically the rest of Baghdad, where security is far less guaranteed.
Why green zone and red zone?
Well, it’s exactly what you’re thinking.
Green meaning safe, red meaning not so much.
Within the walls of the Green Zone in Baghdad, you’ll find embassies, government ministries, military bases, and diplomatic housing.
The US Embassy is also here. Actually, it’s one of the largest in the world.
You’ll also find the Iraqi Parliament, Presidential Palace, and several foreign missions.
Inside the Green Zone, you’ll find:
Before 2003, the area that became the Green Zone was a district of elite residences and palaces belonging to Saddam Hussein and his closest circle.
When US forces took over Baghdad, they moved into these luxury compounds and turned the area into the main hub for operations.
During this time, the Green Zone was a bubble of relative calm in a city that, for many years, was the exact opposite.
The zone quickly grew into a mini-city. Complete with American-style dining halls, coffee shops, mobile phone towers, and makeshift gyms. Soldiers, diplomats, and contractors all lived and worked inside. The US military even set up a radio station inside the zone, broadcasting music and news for troops.
Depending on where in the Iraqi Green Zone, security can still be extremely tight.
There are multiple layers of checkpoints, and access is restricted to government personnel, embassy staff, and authorised visitors.
You’ll need official clearance and escort if you want to get in. This isn’t a place tourists can just stroll into.
Parts of the Green Zone are now open to the public. Streets have been reopened, and traffic can flow through certain parts during the day.
Nevertheless, much of it remains off-limits.
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