Commenting on the suicide attack on a group of pilgrims in Baghdad, which has so far claimed the lives of over 40 people, Federal Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle issued the following statement today (1 February):

“I condemn today’s bomb attack in Baghdad in the strongest terms. I would like to express my sincere sympathy to the Iraqi people and to the families of the victims, and I wish the injured a speedy recovery.

These violent acts of terror cannot be allowed to derail the course of reconciliation in Iraq. With regard to the upcoming parliamentary elections in March, I call on all parties to continue this course with composure and perseverance.”

Recent weeks have seen increased attacks on state institutions and members of various religious groups in Iraq. On 25 January at least 30 people lost their lives in bomb attacks on several hotels in Baghdad.