Annan pledges UN help in wake of chemical train tragedy in Iran

Reacting to the news of today’s deadly train accident in Iran, United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan pledged the world body’s help in mitigating the disaster.

“The Secretary-General was distressed to learn of the casualties and damage caused by the chemical train derailment and explosion in Neyshabur, Iran,” UN spokesman Fred Eckhard told reporters in New York.

Conveying Mr. Annan’s condolences and deepest sympathy to the Iranian Government and the victims of the disaster, the spokesman said the UN “stands ready to assist those affected by the tragedy.”