As politicians and observers of Iraq – local and international - debate whether or not there is civil war in Iraq it is vital to focus all efforts on ensuring that the current situation does not worsen still further, and that all is done to prepare to meet current and anticipated emergency humanitarian needs. While attacks by insurgents and counter-insurgency operations continue and sectarian violence deepens and spreads, it is civilians that are paying the price. Violence is presently heavily concentrated in the Centre and less so in the South of Iraq, but the whole country needs to be prepared to respond to current and future emergency situations, whether in terms of conflict or natural disasters. A more in-depth study of the challenges, shortfalls and constraints that NGOs face in responding to emergencies in Iraq vis-àvis possible trends of violence is urgently required.