AP count: Iraqi deaths hover near lowest level

BAGHDAD (AP) - Casualties among Iraqi civilians and security forces last month hit their second-lowest level in nearly four years with 283 deaths linked to war-related violence, according to an Associated Press tally.

The figure was an increase from the lowest death count - 242 in January - but reflected an overall drop in violence around Iraq in recent months.

The deadliest month for Iraqi civilians and security forces, according to the AP count, was December 2006 with 2,309 killed.

Last month's figure included 227 civilians and 56 security forces and others.

The AP began tracking the figure in April 2005 based on reports by police, hospital officials, morgue workers and verifiable witness accounts.

These numbers are considered a minimum, based on AP reporting. The actual number is likely higher since many killings go unreported or uncounted. The security personnel include Iraqi military, police and police recruits, and bodyguards. Insurgent deaths are not included.

The U.S. military reported 16 deaths in February. The lowest total was 13 in July.
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