Aid groups fear worsening of humanitarian crisis in Iraq

0 Comments | AFP, March, 2008

GENEVA (AFP) — The United Nations Children's Fund, the Red Cross and the International Organisation for Migration expressed concern Friday about the worsening humanitarian crisis in Iraq after recent military operations.

"The population was not expecting this, they didn't build up any food stocks. There is also a problem of access to medical care.

"We've heard reports of medical transport and ambulances being targeted and attacked," said Red Cross spokeswoman Carla Haddad.

The humanitarian organisation launched an appeal "for all parties involved in the conflict to protect civilians from any acts of violence and ensure their access to medical services".

UNICEF described access to drinking water as "particularly critical".

"We estimate that...