Iraq: SRSG Ashraf Qazi condemns bombing of Al-Khillani Mosque in Baghdad
Baghdad-20 June 2007- The Special
Representative of the Secretary-General for Iraq (SRSG) Ashraf Qazi forcefully
condemned yesterday's bombing of the historically significant Al Khillani
Mosque in the heart of Baghdad. SRSG Qazi described the bombing in one
of Baghdad's busiest areas as especially repugnant because it targeted
worshippers leaving the noon prayer, resulting in the death and injury
of more than 200 innocent civilians. Mr. Qazi warned that the increased
targeting of places of worship is aimed at pushing Iraq further into a
sectarian war that threatens to engulf the whole country. He called on
all Iraqis to reject violence and opt for unity and reconciliation. He
also called on those responsible for law enforcement in Iraq to pursue
the perpetrators and bring them to justice.