SECRETARY-GENERAL STRONGLY CONDEMNS ATTACKS, ASSASSINATIONS IN IRAQ

EXPRESSES SOLIDARITY WITH GOVERNMENT, PEOPLE IN FACE OF VIOLENCE

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General strongly condemns the attacks and assassinations in Baghdad, Kirkuk and Anbar in recent days that have killed and wounded a large number of Iraqis.  He expresses his solidarity with the Government and people of Iraq in the face of these appalling acts of violence. 

The Secretary-General notes that Iraq has been benefiting from an improving security environment, and appeals to the people of Iraq to continue to reject these attempts to incite further violence in the country.  As Iraq prepares to take full responsibility for security in its cities, he calls upon all Iraqi political leaders to work together towards achieving lasting peace through national dialogue and reconciliation.  The United Nations remains committed to supporting the Government's efforts toward this end. 

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For information media • not an official record