15 August 2011 –Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and his top envoy for Iraq strongly condemned the series of bombings that reportedly killed dozens of people and wounded many others across the country today.

“The Secretary-General appeals to the people of Iraq to reject these attempts to incite further violence in the country,” his spokesperson said in a statement, adding that it is “particularly heinous” that it took place during the holy month of Ramadan.

“He calls upon all Iraqi political leaders to continue to work together towards achieving peace through national dialogue and reconciliation,” the statement added.

According to media reports, there were 37, allegedly coordinated, attacks in more than a dozen cities, including car bombs, improvised explosive devices and suicide bombers. At least 60 people have reportedly been killed.

The Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Iraq, Ad Melkert, deplored the “deliberate targeting of security forces and locations where civilians congregate, including near places of worship,” according to a statement issued by the UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI).

Mr. Melkert called on all Iraqis to reflect on the values of tolerance and respect for human life. “In this difficult time, he urges Iraq’s people to unite and remain steadfast in their continued effort towards coexistence, democracy and reconstruction,” added the statement.

Both Mr. Ban and Mr. Melkert extended their heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and wished speedy recovery to those injured.