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Islamic Human Rights Commission
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19 November 2009

PRESS RELEASE: Yemen – Reports suggest use of phosphorus bombs

Saudi Arabian air force planes have been bombing North Yemen since 9 November. The raids are disproportionate and the blanket attack in North Yemen has led to scores of people dead and hundreds more injured. Photographic evidence and reports from the ground suggest that phosphorous bombs have been used.[1]

IHRC condemns the use of chemical weapons particularly the illegal usage of white phosphorus on the civilian population and calls on the international community to investigate Saudi Arabia for this breach of the law of war.

IHRC chair Massoud Shadjareh stated:

“We call on the Saudis to halt the bombardment of North Yemen where the majority of casualties are civilians. The horrific pictures of the victims offer a stark reminder of the victims in Gaza who suffered the phosphorus bombs by Israel.  The victims in Yemen demand the same international recognition for their suffering.”

Notes to Editors:

[1]  Images can be found here:

[https://www.ihrc.org.uk/gallery/view/23]

For more information please contact the Press Office on (+44) 20 8904 4222 or (+44)7958522196, email: info@ihrc.org. [ENDS]

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The Islamic Human Rights Commission is an NGO in special consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council.

Islamic Human Rights Commission
PO Box 598
Wembley
HA9 7XH
United Kingdom

Telephone (+44) 20 8904 4222
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Email: info@ihrc.org
Web: www.ihrc.org