Iraq: Concern for humanitarian needs of civilians in Basra and other cities
Amnesty International today lent its voice to concerns expressed by the International Committee of the Red Cross at the
plight of civilians in Basra, in Southern Iraq, who have been without water since Friday afternoon. Basra has been under
fire by the USA and its allied forces for the last three days.
"We are concerned that the situation in Basra may be mirrored in other cities and regions in Iraq. Military authorities
have a responsibility to carefully assess the implications on civilians of any object that they target. All parties to
the conflict in Iraq have a responsibility to ensure that the humanitarian needs of the civilian population are fully
met."
"With the escalation of military activity in Iraq it is vital that the health and safety of ordinary civilians is given
increasing consideration," Amnesty International said.
Both the Iraqi authorities and the military authorities of the USA and its allies must facilitate access and the
operations of humanitarian organisations.