Over 70 people were killed and many more were wounded in Iraq today in two suicide attacks in Baghdad and Baquba. Another attack yesterday on a Sunni mosque near Baghdad also claimed several lives.

Federal Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier issued the following statement in Berlin today (23 April):

“I condemn these callous and malicious attacks in the strongest terms. They targeted pilgrims on their way to the holy city of Kerbala and the police who were charged with protecting them. Our heartfelt sympathy extends to the families of the many victims and we wish all those injured a speedy and complete recovery.

These cowardly attacks sought to reverse the progress made in stabilizing Iraq over the past months and to foment religious conflict. This cannot be allowed to happen!

Germany and its partners will continue to do their utmost to support Iraq's development and the country's efforts to foster peace among religious and ethnic communities.”