Life for the Iraqi people is very difficult as there is a high dependence on food rationing. Professional people and the middle classes are devastated by the actions of Saddam Hussein. I met a retired university professor who was earning $4 dollars per month. His wife who also works at the university and is not in good health earns $25 per month. Five years ago 250 dinar was worth $10 dollars, they are now worth 12 cents. The value of the currency has fallen dramatically with consequent effects on the economy.