The Secretary General of the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC), Professor Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu, has strongly criticized the series of horrific bombings that rocked the Iraqi capital, Baghdad, on Wednesday 29th April 2009, claiming dozens of Iraqi lives and leaving many others wounded.

The Secretary General expressed his deep sympathy and sincere condolences to the Iraqi leadership and people, especially the families of the victims who lost their lives following the terrorist attacks. He also wished the injured a prompt recovery.

Likewise, Ihsanoglu expressed his shock and dismay that civilians are targeted by such bombings in traditional markets and public places. He qualified these acts as heinously criminal.

He urged Iraqis to live up to the teachings of Islam, which sanctifies and hallows human life, condemning at the same time the perpetrators of these abominable crimes.

The Secretary General expressed his concern at the spiraling cycle of violence in Iraq throughout April 2009. He also reiterated his appeal to the Iraqi people to stand firmly against extremism and terrorism.