Iraq's oil sector mired in problems despite successful election

The people of Iraq surprised many outside observers by turning out in greater numbers than expected to vote in January's election. Moreover, the threatened violence, though considerable, proved to be less than initially feared. The country's economy and energy industries, however, remain in a parlous state, with few signs of amelioration in sight. Both American and British forces recorded their worst single day for casualties just before the election, and terrorist attacks on foreign soldiers, Iraqi civilians and government forces continued at high levels following the poll.