UNAMI Website, 9 Sep 2014 – The World Health Organization in Iraq strongly condemns the air strike that hit Hawija city hospital on 6 September, striking the obstetrics section which manages childbirth, and causing the death of preterm infants, babies and a pregnant woman.
The air attack also targeted Abbasi Public Health Centre in Hawija city leaving heavy material damage.
“I request all parties to respect the civilian institutions particularly hospitals as they serve humanity without any discretion” said WHO representative Dr. Syed Jaffar Hussain.  He further stressed that the safety of the patients and health staff working in Hawija hospital should be ensured”.
WHO calls upon involved parties in the on-going conflict in Kirkuk Governorate not to target clinics and hospitals which would further complicate the health care facilities available to serve the people of Kirkuk.