The Swiss-based International Association for Religious Freedom issued a letter to UN High Commissioner for Human Rights expressing the concern of the international community and human rights organizations regarding Nouri Maliki’s illegal deadline against Ashraf.
“The UNHCR’s recent statement on Ashraf residents’ refugee status reminded the Iraqi government of its obligations based on international law, under which the residents must enjoy fundamental protection of security and welfare,” the letter emphasized.
“Therefore, the Iraqi government’s threats against Ashraf residents and this claim that they lack any kind of legal status has no basis, and the Iraqi government must recognize Ashraf residents’ legal status. UN monitors must station in Ashraf. Ashraf must be announced as a civilian zone without any Iraqi armed forces and placed under permanent UN observation.
“Along with the international community, we call on Her Excellency as the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to impel the Iraqi government to accept international laws in regards to Ashraf residents, lift the siege and illegal deadline against Ashraf and remove the loudspeakers around the camp used by the Iranian regime’s intelligence agents to impose psychological torture on the residents.”