UN envoy condemns ‘in the strongest terms’ deadly attack in central Baghdad

The United Nations top envoy in Iraq today condemned “in the strongest terms” an attack in central Baghdad, which reportedly resulted in dozens of deaths and injured many more.

“These atrocious crimes against the Iraqi people need to stop and the perpetrators should be brought to justice,” the Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Iraq, Martin Kobler, said in a news release.

According to media reports, a suicide bomber detonated an explosive-packed car outside a Shi’ite Muslim office in the capital’s centre on Monday, killing at least 26 people and wounding more than 190.

In the news release, Mr. Kobler extended his condolences to the families of the attack’s victims, and wished a speedy recovery to those who were injured. He also reiterated the need for all Iraqis to remain steadfast in the face of violence.

“I urge Iraqi people from all walks of life and religious backgrounds to rise above past divisions and unite for a peaceful future,” he said.