Iraq: UN chief congratulates Prime Minister al-Abadi on recapture of Ramadi from ISIL

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today called Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi to congratulate him on the success of the Iraqi security forces in fighting the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), calling the liberation of the city of Ramadi an important victory.

He stressed the need for measures to be taken to restore the rule of law as well as basic services in Ramadi and to allow for the return of internally displaced persons as soon as possible, offering UN support for this.

Mr. Ban also voiced concern at the recent abduction of a group of Qatari citizens in Iraq, including children, and urged the Prime Minister to do everything possible to ensure their prompt and safe release.