Iraq Reality

Reuters: Al Qaeda sows fear after sunset in Iraq's north

In northern Iraq, cities remain virtual ghost towns after dark as al Qaeda militants stalk the streets and fearful residents huddle indoors.

The U.S. military and Iraqi officials have hailed vastly better security in Baghdad, western Anbar province and areas south of the capital, which has allowed people to venture out at night to shop at markets and eat at restaurants.

But in the cities of Samarra, Baquba and Mosul, the militants still sow fear.