The attack perpetrated against the United Nations Office in Baghdad in the afternoon of Tuesday 19 August, has caused major damage. Although the full toll of this tragedy is yet to be confirmed, the United Nations Office in Jordan was informed that a number of friends and UN colleagues were wounded and some lost their life in the attack. Among them was Mr. Sergio Vieira de Mello, Special Representative of the UN Secretary General in Iraq, and former United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, which is a bitter blow for the United Nations and for the people of Iraq.
Earlier this morning, one minute of silence was observed by the United Nations Staff in Jordan to pay respect to their friends and colleagues.
The United Nations Office in Jordan is enforcing the partial evacuation of staff from Baghdad in close cooperation with the national authorities. Efforts are being coordinated by the United Nations Office to ensure the air transportation of those staff and to provide accommodation in Amman as well as immediate medical and counseling assistance.