Commemoration of the 22nd Anniversary of the Baghdad UN Headquarters Bombing and World Humanitarian Day

Remembering the Baghdad Bombing

• 🕯️ The ceremony marks the 22nd anniversary of the tragic bombing of the United Nations headquarters at the Canal Hotel in Baghdad.
• 💔 22 UN colleagues and collaborators lost their lives in this act of violence, including Sergio Vieira de Mello, the Secretary-General's Special Representative for Iraq.
• 🎗️ The attack targeted the UN headquarters not just as a building, but as a symbol of the United Nations' ideals and purpose in Iraq.

World Humanitarian Day Observance

• 🌍 This day, designated by the General Assembly in 2008, coincides with World Humanitarian Day, honoring humanitarian aid workers killed or injured in the line of duty.
• 🤝 The ceremony serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those serving in challenging circumstances and a recommitment to the principles they upheld.
• 🕊️ Remarks highlighted the ongoing complexity and volatility of the world, with the UN personnel facing increasingly unpredictable threats, noting that the past year was the deadliest on record for UN personnel.

Iraq's Perspective and Ongoing Commitment

• 🇮🇶 Iraq reaffirms its unwavering commitment to supporting efforts to alleviate suffering and to join the global fight against terrorism and violence.
• 🤝 The Ambassador of Iraq expressed gratitude to UN members serving in Iraq and extended condolences to the families of the victims.
• 🏛️ Discussions are underway for a permanent memorial of the tragic event in Iraq, reflecting a shared commitment to honoring the lost colleagues.

The Standing Committee's Call for Accountability

• ⚖️ The ceremony also addressed the theme of accountability for attacks on aid workers and civilians, condemning acts of impunity.
• 😔 The bombing of the Canal Hotel claimed 22 precious lives and wounded many more, forever impacting international service and humanitarian values.
• 📈 Grim statistics were shared, with 380 aid workers killed in 2024, nearly two-thirds in Gaza, emphasizing the extreme risks faced by humanitarian staff.
• 💪 Despite attacks, the resolve to continue humanitarian work is strengthened, reinforcing the commitment to justice, dignity, and the value of every human life.