SULAIMANI (ESTA) — The United Nations said on Sunday terrorism and unlawful acts must not be allowed to derail Iraq’s democratic process, following a failed assassination attempt that targeted the country’s prime minister.
The U.N. Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) condemned in a statement the assassination attempt against Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi.
“Terrorism, violence and unlawful acts must not be allowed to undermine Iraq’s stability and derail its democratic process,” UNAMI said.
“The Mission joins the Prime Minister in calling for calm and urging restraint,” it added.
It also encouraged all sides to take responsibility for de-escalation and to engage in dialogue to ease political tensions, upholding the national interest of Iraq.
The residence of Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi was targeted by a drone laden with explosives early on Sunday. The Iraqi military said Kadhimi escaped unhurt.
The Iraqi military said Kadhimi was in “good health”, but several members of his personnel protection were injured.
Two government officials said Kadhimi’s residence had been hit by at least one explosion and confirmed to Reuters that the prime minister was safe.
Security sources told Reuters that six members of Kadhimi’s personal protection force stationed outside his residence had been injured.
Earlier, the United States condemned the attack, offering assistance with the investigation.
“This apparent act of terrorism, which we strongly condemn, was directed at the heart of the Iraqi state,” spokesman Ned Price said in a statement.
“We are in close touch with the Iraqi security forces charged with upholding Iraq’s sovereignty and independence and have offered our assistance as they investigate this attack.”
Iraqi President Barham Salih said earlier that the “terrorist” attack was a “dangerous transgression” and a “heinous crime” against Iraq.
“We cannot accept that Iraq will be dragged into chaos and a coup against its constitutional system,” Salih said in a tweet.
Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani also condemned the failed assassination attempt, saying it was a “dangerous” development that threatens security and stability of the country.
