SC/8017
                                                                                                                  IK/423
                                                                                                                                                                3 March 2004

Press Statement on Iraq by Security Council President

NEW YORK, 2 March (UN Headquarters) -- Following is the press statement on Iraq delivered by Security Council President Jean-Marc de la Sablière (France):

Members of the Security Council condemn in the strongest possible terms today’s horrendous terrorist attacks in Baghdad and Kerbala, that have reportedly resulted in more than a hundred dead and injured hundreds more, with the sole and deliberate purpose of exacerbating tensions between religious communities in Iraq on this holy day celebrating Ashura. 

Members of the Security Council express their deepest sympathy and condolences to all the victims of the attacks and their families.

Members of the Security Council reiterate their full support to the efforts of the Iraqi people to rebuild their country and advance the political transition.

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