Peter:

If I read those numbers aright, it is possible — in fact probable — that

the Iraqi casualty count for the war is negative — i.e. that less Iraqis

died unnatural deaths during, and as a result of, the war, than would have

otherwise.

I recall reading a few years ago somewhere that U.S. military caualties in

Gulf War 1 were likewise negative — i.e. that the military actually

suffered fewer casualties than they would normally have done in a similar

peacetime period via training accidents, traffic accidents, etc. The writer

put it down to enhanced discipline and alertness in the combat theater. If

anyone can remind me where I read that, or re-create the numbers (or

authoritatively debunk them), I’d be obliged.