Iraqi leaders must immediately stop violence and protect civilians – UN envoy
| Publisher | UN News Service |
| Publication Date | 28 May 2013 |
| Cite as | UN News Service, Iraqi leaders must immediately stop violence and protect civilians – UN envoy, 28 May 2013, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/51a872504.html [accessed 6 June 2023] |
| 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. |
The top United Nations official in Iraq today urged the country's leaders to stop the bloodshed that has in recent weeks killed and injured dozens of innocent civilians.
"I once again urge all Iraqi leaders to do everything possible to protect Iraqi civilians," said the Secretary-General's Special Representative, Martin Kobler. "It is their responsibility to stop the bloodshed now."
According to media reports, more than 50 people were killed in a wave of car bombings in several crowded commercial areas of Baghdad on Monday, despite tightened security measures. The latest attacks follow two bombings near a Sunni mosque north of Baghdad which killed at least 43 people and wounded more than 80 less than two weeks ago.
Mr. Kobler has repeatedly called on Iraqi authorities to take decisive measures to stop the escalating violence. Earlier this month, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon urged all Iraqis to come together and engage in inclusive dialogue to overcome the "deep political crisis" facing the country.
"It is the politicians' responsibility to act immediately and to engage in dialogue to resolve the political impasse and not let terrorists benefit from their political differences," Mr. Kobler said.
"We will continue to remind the leaders of Iraq that the country will slide into a dangerous unknown if they do not take immediate action."
