Baghdad, 1 November 2010- The Special Representative of the Secretary-General of the United Nations for Iraq (SRSG), Ad Melkert, strongly condemns the terrorist attack on Sayidat al-Nejat (Our Lady of Salvation) Catholic Church that took place last night in Baghdad. According to media reports, tens of people were killed and many others were injured during the rescue operation of the worshipers who were taken hostage by the attackers.
SRSG Melkert extends his condolences to the families of the victims and to the people and the Government of Iraq and wishes a speedy recovery to those who were wounded. He also expressed concern that acts of violence targeting the Iraqi people, of all different backgrounds, continue to claim lives on a daily basis and reiterated that every effort should be exerted by all Iraqi leaders to expedite agreement on pending issues, in particular the government formation, in order to ensure Iraq’s ability to protect its citizens.