UNITED NATIONS, Feb. 22 (UPI) -- The U.N. Security Council condemned Iraqi insurgents targeting civilian areas with car bombs loaded with chlorine gas.
A statement condemning the attacks was read out to reporters Thursday by Slovakian Ambassador Peter Burian, president of the panel of 15 for February.
The use of chlorine gas by terrorists in Baghdad has further heightened fears among residents of the war-torn city. The chemical can cause burning of the skin and difficulty in breathing.
"Members of the council reiterate the council's call upon member states to prevent the transit of terrorists to and from Iraq, arms for terrorists, and financing that would support terrorists," said Burian.
While the statement said the Iraqi government is primarily responsible for bringing security and stability to Iraq it also mentioned a council resolution that extends the mandate for a multinational force in Iraq, led by the United States, which is there "at the request of the government of Iraq."
