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Top UN envoy condemns 'abhorrent' bombings in Baghdad and Mosul

Top UN envoy condemns 'abhorrent' bombings in Baghdad and Mosul

The aftermath of a suicide bombing in Iraq (file photo)
A top United Nations official has strongly condemned the recent bombings that targeted worshipers in two of Iraq's major cities, leaving dozens of innocent civilians dead or injured.

At least 36 people were reportedly killed or wounded as a result of the car bomb that exploded on Friday outside a mosque in the northern city of Mosul as well as several explosions that struck the capital, Baghdad.

Ad Melkert, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon's Special Representative for Iraq, described the bombings as “an abhorrent crime targeting worshipers while they prayed and others as they embarked on their mid-Shaaban pilgrimage.”

The mission said UN agencies are working with local officials and the Iraq Red Crescent Organization to deliver humanitarian relief to families affected by the bombings. The UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has provided basic household supplies to some 50 families whose homes were badly damaged.

Mr. Melkert, who heads the UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), urged local authorities to ensure access for the ongoing humanitarian effort.

The attacks come just over a week after bombings at five Shi'a mosques across Baghdad which drew strong condemnation from the Secretary-General.

“Attacks against places of worship cannot be justified by any political or religious cause,” Mr. Ban said in a statement following the 31 July attacks. “These attacks appear to be aimed at provoking sectarian strife and undermining stability in Iraq.”