Secretary-General ‘appalled’ by murder of 12 Nepalese hostages in Iraq

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for Secretary-General Kofi Annan:

The Secretary-General is appalled and dismayed by the gruesome murder of 12 Nepalese civilian hostages in Iraq.  The Secretary-General is particularly disturbed by the cruel nature of these crimes and their use as public spectacle.  He conveys his deepest sympathy and sincere condolences to the bereaved families.

The Secretary-General strongly condemns all hostage-takings and killings of innocent civilians, which no cause can ever justify.  He calls once again for the immediate release of all hostages in Iraq and appeals to all parties to adhere strictly to the fundamental precepts of human rights and respect for human life.

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