Iraq: top UN official deplores 'vicious' bombing in Baghdad

The Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Iraq has strongly condemned Thursday's bombing in Baghdad, one of the deadliest attacks in the strife-torn nation in recent months.

Staffan de Mistura described the attack in the city's Karrada district as “a wickedly vicious crime committed against the defenseless,” according to a statement issued by the UN Assistance Mission in Iraq (UNAMI).

The attack reportedly killed around 70 people and wounded over 120 when it struck a crowded shopping area in the Iraqi capital.

“This horrifying crime shows the inhumane nature of the perpetrators who will stop at nothing in their quest to further destabilize the country and fan the flames of hatred,” he added.

The Special Representative extended the UN's condolences to the bereaved families and wishes for full and speedy recovery for the wounded.