KHRP condemns Turkish bombardment of Northern Iraq |
� KHRP is concerned by the continuing aerial bombardment of the Khandil and Zap regions of Northern Iraq by the Turkish military that began last week for the first time in over a year. Coupled with mortar fire from Iran, these actions have reportedly resulted in the loss of civilian life. Whilst this violation of Iraqi sovereignty, and the death and destruction which accompanies it, is to be condemned in its own right, these actions also exacerbate already difficult humanitarian and human rights challenges in the region including displacement and environmental degradation. KHRP is currently representing over 80 villagers from Northern Iraq as a result of Turkish bombardments. �It has previously reported on the creation of thousands of displaced persons within Northern Iraq as a direct result of the bombardments. KHRP�s Managing Director Rachel Bernu stated today, �The escalation in armed activity in the Kurdish regions of Turkey and Iraq is of serious concern and should end immediately in order to protect civilians who have lived with and through far too many armed battles, resulting in losses of life and livelihoods. �The government of Turkey has stated that it is well aware that the solution to the conflict is not going to be found through heightened militarisation, so it is hard to understand the purpose of these actions, except through the lens of internal politicking�. � |