SRSG Kubiš Condemns Attack on Shia Shrine in Balad, Warns that Daesh Aims to Incite Sectarian Tensions, Calls for Unity

The SRSG expresses condolences to the families of those who were killed and wishes the injured a speedy recovery.

“Once again the Daesh terrorists strike with deadly results, leaving many casualties among innocent people celebrating the Eid-ul-Fitr at the shrine and surrounding area,” he said.

The SRSG said the attack in Balad in Salah El-Din Governorate comes as the Daesh terrorists continue to suffer defeat at the battlefield and lose ground and support base across the country. It also follows the heinous suicide bombing in Baghdad a few days earlier which killed or wounded hundreds of civilians preparing for the Eid.

“It is clear the cowardly attack on the shrine aims to spark sectarian tensions and drag Iraq back to the dark days of sectarian conflict. With the people’s awareness and unity, the terrorists’ goals will not be achieved,” he said.

The SRSG also expresses pain and shock at the staggering death toll from the 03 July Daesh suicide bombing in Baghdad’s Karada neighbourhood. “The enormity of this atrocity is coming to light by the day. Our hearts go out to the families who lost their loved ones, the other victims who have been injured, and Baghdadis as well as Iraqis in general who have been devastated by this great loss.”