Olga Craig: Irish journalist reports from Basra during Iraq War

In 2003, as the Iraq War commenced, Olga Craig and Jens Munch found themselves on the outskirts of Umm Qasr, a strategic city in southern Iraq. They had been camping in the desert for a month, preparing to cover the unfolding conflict. The atmosphere shifted dramatically when they felt the ground tremble and heard the distinct sound of sniper fire, signaling the onset of military action. Coalition forces aimed to capture Umm Qasr and its vital petroleum fields, marking the beginning of a prolonged conflict against Saddam Hussein's regime. Craig, a roving correspondent for The Sunday Telegraph, and Munch, a freelance photographer, were not embedded with any military unit, which allowed them a unique perspective on the war. Their independent status provided them with the freedom to report on the situation as it unfolded, capturing the chaos and intensity of the early days of the invasion. The journalists witnessed firsthand the impact of the war on the local population and the environment. The invasion of Iraq was characterized by rapid military advances, but it also led to significant humanitarian crises and long-term consequences for the region. As the conflict escalated, the challenges faced by journalists in war zones became increasingly apparent, highlighting the risks they took to bring stories to the public. Ultimately, Craig's reporting from Iraq, along with her previous experiences in Northern Ireland, showcased her commitment to journalism and her ability to navigate dangerous situations. Her work contributed to a broader understanding of the complexities of war and its effects on society.