UN top official in Iraq strongly condemns attack on Iraqi church

UN top official in Iraq strongly condemns attack on Iraqi church

2010-11-02 04:51:55 GMT+7 (ICT)

UNITED NATIONS (BNO NEWS) -- The United Nations top envoy in Iraq on Monday strongly condemned the terrorist attack on an Iraqi church on Sunday that killed dozens of people and injured others.

"Acts of violence targeting the Iraqi people, of all different backgrounds, continue to claim lives on a daily basis," said Ad Melkert, Special Representative of Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in Iraq.

On Sunday, 52 people were killed and around 70 others were wounded after a group of gunmen attacked a Catholic church in Baghdad. Two of the attackers ignited an explosive device, which they were carrying on a vest.

Melkert reaffirmed the need to increase efforts for speeding up the formation of a government that would enhance and ensure security and the country's ability to maintain peace in the region.

The UN top envoy in Iraq also extended condolences to the families of the victims and the people and Government of Iraq, wishing the wounded a speedy recovery.

The deaths, along with numerous injuries, took place during an operation to rescue worshipers taken hostage at the Sayidat al-Nejat (our Lady of Salvation) church. The Islamic State of Iraq (ISI) were responsible for the attack as they have demanded the release of alleged female prisoners from Iraqi and Egyptian custody.

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