As a new internal crisis smoulders in Iraq, a series of attacks in Baghdad are reported to have left over 60 people dead and over 100 injured.

In this connection Foreign Minister Westerwelle today (22 December) issued the following statement:

“I am deeply appalled by these devastating attacks and condemn them in the strongest possible terms. Our thoughts are with all those who have lost loved ones; we wish the injured a speedy recovery.
People in Iraq and the international community have made a huge investment to rebuild the country and promote national reconciliation. The forces of terror must not be allowed to hinder this process.
I appeal to all political forces in Iraq not to jeopardize lightly what has been achieved and to work together for the good of the country. Compromise and dialogue are the only way to build a better future for Iraq.”

The conflict between Prime Minister Al‑Maliki and leading Sunni politicians has recently intensified. Grave allegations have been levelled at Vice-President Al‑Hashimi, who thereupon sought refuge in the Kurdish region of the country. Political instability in Iraq appears to be on the rise.