SECRETARY-GENERAL, APPALLED BY TODAY’S DEADLY BOMB ATTACKS IN BAGHDAD, URGES IRAQI

LEADERS TO PREVENT FURTHER VIOLENCE, SUSTAIN RECENT IMPROVEMENTS IN SECURITY

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

The Secretary-General is appalled by the bomb attacks in Baghdad today which reportedly left more than 70 dead and many more wounded.  These attacks, the deadliest in the city in many months, were particularly callous in targeting innocent civilians gathered at two popular pet markets.

In the face of these provocative attacks, the Secretary-General stands in solidarity with the people of Iraq.  He hopes that Iraqi leaders will work together in a spirit of national reconciliation to prevent further violence and sustain the recent improvements that have been made on the security front.

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For information media • not an official record