Baghdad hotel hit in missile attack

A hotel used by Western journalists and contractors in central Baghdad has been hit by a missile, according to reports emerging today.

The sixth floor of the Sheraton Hotel was hit early this morning by a missile, but there were no injuries.

The missile attack follows on from yesterday's bloodshed when nine police recruits were killed after their bus was ambushed by insurgents near Hillah.

Despite the attacks, the Coalition Provisional Authority is still on schedule to hand over power to the Iraqi sovereign government in 100 days time.

Earlier today the US administrator in Iraq, Paul Bremer, paid tribute to the improvements made to the quality of life of ordinary Iraqis since the invasion last March. Mr Bremer highlighted advances made to the country's infrastructure and economy.

However, there is a long way to go before Iraqis can enjoy security and stability. According to a US travel warning issued today attacks against civilian targets throughout Iraq continue at a high rate, including at hotels, the UN headquarters, the International Committee of the Red Cross, police stations, checkpoints entering Coalition Provisional Authority areas, and several foreign missions.

It added: "In addition, there have been planned and random killings, as well as extortions and kidnappings. Coalition-led military operations continue, and there are daily attacks against Coalition forces throughout the country.

"Attacks against coalition forces as well as civilian targets occur throughout the day, but travel at night is exceptionally dangerous. Hotels, restaurants and locations with expatriate staff continue to be attacked. The security environment in all of Iraq is dangerous, volatile and unpredictable. Although restrictions on the use of US passports for travel to, in or through Iraq have been lifted, travel to Iraq remains very dangerous."

Under the draft constitution signed earlier this month in Baghdad, there will be national elections before the end of 2005 to ratify the 275-member National Assembly; governate councils; and directly elected government to Iraq.

(gmcg)