UN ready to assist response efforts following quake in Iran and Iraq, says Guterres

The United Nations stands ready to assist efforts to respond to the earthquake that struck Iran and Iraq on Sunday, the Organization's top official has said.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres “is deeply saddened by the loss of life and damage” following the quake that struck the border regions of the two countries, said a statement issued by his Spokesman, Stéphane Dujarric.

The statement said the Secretary-General conveyed his condolences to the bereaved families and to the Governments and people of Iran and Iraq, and wished those injured a speedy recovery. He also commended the local response efforts underway.

“The United Nations stands ready to assist if required,” read the statement.