Strasbourg, 22/05/2013 (Agence Europe) - On 22 May, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton firmly condemned the attacks in several Iraqi towns over recent days, which have caused a “shocking number” of casualties. “Such violence against innocent civilians, including worshippers attending prayers, is absolutely appalling, and those responsible must be held accountable for their crimes”, Ashton stated in a press release.
Ashton once again urged Iraq's political leaders “to engage in meaningful dialogue” to overcome the current political stalemate. She reiterated that the EU stands by the Iraqi people in resisting this violence “which seems designed to sow sectarian divisions and destabilise the country”.
Since the beginning of the year, according to AFP's calculations, over 200 people have died per month in the violence - with this number reaching a high of 460 in April. On the day of 20 May alone, 64 people were killed. (CG/transl.fl)