European Union statement on killing of Camp Ashraf residents

Statement by High Representative Catherine Ashton on the killing of residents at Camp Ashraf

The High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the Commission issued the following statement today: “I condemn in the strongest terms the killings that took place at Camp Ashraf yesterday, which according to various reports claimed the lives of numerous camp residents. My sincere condolences go out to the families of the victims and I extend my wishes for a speedy recovery to those who were injured in yesterday’s violence.

The circumstances in which this brutal incident took place must be clarified and those found to be responsible must be held fully accountable. I welcome the decision of the Government of Iraq to open an inquiry. I further call on the Iraqi authorities to ensure that the residents of the Camp are protected from any further violence and that the wounded obtain all necessary medical assistance.

The EU is committed to a peaceful solution of the Camp Ashraf issue and I fully support U’AMI’s decision, under its humanitarian mandate, to conduct an independent and transparent assessment of this tragic event. I call on all parties and particularly the Government of Iraq to facilitate UNAMI’s fact-finding efforts.”