"It is worrisome that Iraq has entered into a state of anarchy and insecurity in the absence of a central authority capable of imposing order and protecting citizens and public and private property," the Tishrin daily wrote.

The "occupiers have worked and are working with all their might to dismantle the structures and companies of the state and force Iraq into the unknown," it added.

For its part, Ath-Thawra accused Washington, "intoxicated by its momentary victory, of encouraging the insecurity and the fires ravaging Iraqi institutions to show the world the Iraqi people are incapable of assuming their responsibilities."

The United States is facing mounting pressure to restore order as lawlessness has gripped Iraqi cities three days after US troops entered Baghdad and ousted Saddam Hussein's regime.

SPACE.WIRE