Iraq: The last seven years

After seven years, U.S. forces officially terminated their combat role in Iraq this week.

"We have persevered because of a belief we share with the Iraqi people a belief that out of the ashes of war, a new beginning could be born in this cradle of civilization," U.S. President Barack Obama said in a live televised address Tuesday evening.

"Through this remarkable chapter in the history of the United States and Iraq, we have met our responsibilities. Now, it's time to turn the page."

Though arecent report suggests that a slew of projects have been abandoned or have failed, Iraq continueswith its reconstruction efforts in the wake of the 2003 U.S. invasion. Here are somesnapshots documenting damagein Iraqduring the last seven years.

Abu Nawas

Firdos Square

The Golden Mosque

North of Baghdad

Taji