Iraq: Ban strongly condemns latest wave of terrorist attacks

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today strongly condemned a recent wave of terrorist attacks across Iraq that killed hundreds of people and left many more wounded, while he called on Iraqi political leaders to bolster the unity and security of the country.

“The Secretary-General renews his call of last December to Iraqi political leaders and Members of the Council of Representatives to engage in an inclusive dialogue, so as to strengthen the unity and security of the country,” Mr. Ban’s spokesperson said in a statement.

Through the statement, Mr. Ban expressed particular regret over the killing and injuring of a number of protestors today in Fallujah. “Recognizing the right to peaceful assembly, he calls on all parties to exercise maximum restraint,” he added.

According to media reports, at least four people where killed and 42 wounded in Fallujah when Iraqi soldiers fired on protesters demanding that Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki step down.

Mr. Ban confirmed that the UN, through its Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), remained committed to assisting the people and the Government of Iraq in building a peaceful, democratic, and prosperous country.