US Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, Chairwoman of the House of Representatives Subcommittee on Middle East and North Africa, on February 12th raised concerns with United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees Antonio Guterres regarding the safety of Liberty residents after the recent missile attack.
“The recent terrorist attack on Saturday, February 9, 2013 at Camp Hurriya, formerly known as Camp Liberty, in Iraq has only reinforced my concern regarding the safety and living conditions of Ashraf residents. I would like to respectfully request, within all applicable rules and regulations, your assistance to facilitate the return of Ashraf residents at Camp Hurriya to Camp Ashraf for their own protection in preparation for their eventual resettlement.
“This past weekend’s terrorist attack against the residents of Camp Hurriya killed 6 people and injured dozens more. According to reports, the Iranian Quds Force was behind the deadly attack using mortars and Katyusha rockets against innocent civilian life. This horrific attack is another indication that the residents at Camp Hurriya are not secure, despite UN assurances that the facility was safe and up to international standards, and should be allowed to relocate to Camp Ashraf for their safety. Camp Ashraf is equipped with a better infrastructure and safer facilities that can sustain future attacks and improve the livelihood of Ashraf residents.
“It is clear that the Iraqi government has not lived up to its obligations in accordance with the December 25, 2011 memorandum of understanding which ensured the safety and security of the residents at the new location. I urge you to call on the Government of Iraq to assist Ashraf residents return to Camp Ashraf and to investigate this attack immediately in order to take appropriate measures to ensure the safety and security of its residents. “
