ReliefWeb

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.