SECRETARY-GENERAL OUTRAGED BY BOMB ATTACKS ON SHIA PILGRIMS IN IRAQ

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

The Secretary-General is outraged by the series of bomb attacks in Iraq today on Shia pilgrims who were making their way to the holy city of Karbala.  He condemns these heinous acts, which appear to be aimed at provoking sectarian strife.

The Secretary-General appeals to all communities in Iraq to show maximum restraint in the face of these criminal actions.  He also calls on all political and religious leaders in the country to exert their influence to protect civilian lives and to promote mutual respect and dialogue between all Iraqi communities.

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For information media • not an official record