Amnesty Intl.: Urgent inquiry needed into civilian killings by US troops

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Iraq: Urgent inquiry needed into civilian killings by US troops
Press release, 09/17/2004

http://news.amnesty.org/index/ENGMDE140472004

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Multinational troops must take necessary precautions to protect civilians, and respect the principles of necessity and proportionality," said Abdel Salam Sidahmed. "Amnesty International is seeking clarification of the measures multinational forces are taking to ensure that they comply fully with their obligations under international law."

A clarification on the legal responsibilities of multinational troops in Iraq is also needed. These troops have been provided broad powers to act "by preventing and deterring terrorism". However, the international or national standards which they must observe "to take all necessary measures to contribute to the maintenance of security and stability in Iraq" remain unclear.

Iraq's Interim government is responsible for making sure that the multinational troops it has mandated to protect civilians and maintain security, law and order in the country, fulfil their mission while abiding by international humanitarian and human rights law. In addition, each of the states whose troops are deployed in Iraq is responsible for ensuring that its troops abide by international humanitarian and human rights law.

"Amnesty International calls on all parties in Iraq to fully meet their obligations under international law, including by respecting all human rights which Iraq is bound to uphold under the human rights treaties to which it is a party.


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