BAGHDAD, Iraq (AP) – Violence escalated in Iraq on the last day of the year yesterday, with at least 20 people killed in a series of bombings and shootings. American troops shivering in the cold were entertained by an American Idol star as part of year-end celebrations.

A New Year’s letter from President Bush noted that Iraqis had exercised the right to vote three times in 2005, and that the people of Afghanistan had also cast ballots.

“In the coming year, America will continue to stand beside these young democracies and lay the foundation of peace for our children and grandchildren,” Bush wrote. “We appreciate the brave men and women in uniform who protect our country and advance freedom around the world. We are grateful to their families for their support and sacrifice, and we pray for all those who have lost loved ones in freedom’s cause.”

A US soldier died yesterday, bringing 2005’s American military death toll in Iraq near last year’s record level.

American Idol star Diana DeGarmo and other entertainers treated hundreds of US forces in Baghdad to a New Year’s Eve show.

The troops shivered in cold temperatures before a tan stage at Camp Victory as DeGarmo pulled several on stage to dance. She was followed by comedian Reggie McFadden and country music singer Michael Peterson, who were travelling with the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Peter Pace as part of a six-nation holiday tour to thank the troops.