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| Title | Ban 'appalled' at latest attack targeting Iraqi pilgrims |
| Publisher | UN News Service |
| Country | Iraq |
| Publication Date | 13 February 2009 |
| Cite as | UN News Service, Ban 'appalled' at latest attack targeting Iraqi pilgrims, 13 February 2009, available at: http://www.unhcr.org/refworld/docid/49aff7981e.html [accessed 5 June 2012] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
Ban 'appalled' at latest attack targeting Iraqi pilgrims
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon condemned the suicide bomb attack against Shi'a pilgrims near Baghdad today, and recent similar attacks targeting innocent civilians which have left dozens of people dead and wounded, including many women and children.
A statement issued by Mr. Ban's spokesperson said the United Nations chief is “appalled” by the attacks.
“These acts cannot be justified by any political or religious cause and must be condemned in the strongest possible terms.
“The Secretary-General joins with the people of Iraq in rejecting these cruel and reprehensible attempts to reignite sectarian violence in the country,” the statement added.
At least 32 pilgrims were reportedly killed and some 65 injured by a female suicide bomber in today's attack, which occurred south of Baghdad.
The incident comes just two days after two simultaneous explosions struck a bus terminal in south-west Baghdad, targeting pilgrims making the journey from Baghdad to Karbala. At least 16 people were reportedly killed and at least 40 wounded in that attack.
Mr. Ban called on Iraqi leaders to work together in a spirit of national dialogue and mutual respect as demonstrated during the peaceful provincial elections held last month.
Topics: Terrorists,
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