UN welcomes peace deal
At the United Nations, Secretary-General Kofi Annan this evening welcomed efforts by al-Sistani to end three weeks of fighting in Najaf and urged all parties to respect the Imam Ali Mosque, which is revered by Muslims all over the world.
A statement from Annan’s spokesman said he was greatly dismayed by Thursday’s violent incidents in nearby Kufa and other locations in Iraq, especially the high toll of civilian deaths and injuries.
“The secretary-general expresses concern over the humanitarian situation created as a result of the recent hostilities and reminds all parties of their responsibilities under international humanitarian law, including their obligation to ensure free and unhindered access of medical personnel and humanitarian aid to all areas in need,” the statement said.
“The secretary-general reiterates that the United Nations stands ready to assist Iraqis in the transitional political process and calls upon them to resolve their differences through peaceful means,” it said.
