Iraqis ‘losing faith in US-led occupation’

A TOP-SECRET intelligence report warns that Iraqis are losing faith in US-led occupation forces, which is increasing support for the resistance, officials said yesterday.

CIA officials refused to confirm the existence of the report, endorsed by Iraq’s US governor, Paul Bremer. However, two other senior US officials, who wished to remain anonymous said the report paints a worrying picture of the political and security situation in Iraq.

It suggests spiralling violence and a lack of confidence in the US appointed Iraqi Governing Council may be bringing efforts to a turning point, sending more Iraqis over to the side of insurgents fighting occupation troops, said two officials.