Increasing attacks against Iraqis fleeing ISIL spark concern: OHCHR

The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) voiced concern on Tuesday after receiving reports of increased attacks on civilians attempting to flee areas controlled by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) in Iraq.

According to the UN human rights agency, these attacks have been particularly prevalent in the Hamrin mountain chain in north-eastern Iraq, through which an increasing number of civilians are fleeing areas such as Shirqat and Hawija to reach Tikrit, Al-Alam and Kirkuk.

OHCHR sources indicated that the journey, which involves going through uninhabited areas, can take up to 12 hours and that high summer temperatures further compound the arduous journey.

OHCHR reported that at least four families allegedly died earlier this month while attempting the crossing without a guide and inadequate supplies.

Reports reveal ISIL soldiers have begun to set up ambushes, also killing anybody found to have assisted residents in attempting to cross the mountainous passage.

These attacks come amid reports of continued and vicious reprisals carried out by ISIL in controlled areas against anybody deemed to be in opposition to its ideology or rule of law.

OHCHR said an increasing number of civilians are falling victim to car bombs and other improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

The human rights body urged all parties to respect international humanitarian law while ensuring that those attempting to flee conflict-affected areas do so safely. Endit