July 1 – Between nine and 15 people have been killed in a bomb blast while watching and playing football in Baghdad, the latest in a series of attacks targeting Iraqis either competing or watching and prompting a plea by Asian football authorities to beef up security in the region.
According to agency reports, most of those who died were children under 16 – the exact casualty figure varies – while 25 others were wounded.
The blast was the latest in a string of attacks targeting football pitches and cafes broadcasting matches in this football-mad country where Iraqis closely follow not only the national team, but also an array of international competitions.
The spate of sectarian anarchy pushed June’s death toll to 448, according to AFP. It is estimated that more than 1,000 lives were lost in May with experts comparing the latest spate of killings to the deadliest years of 2006-2007.
The Asian Football Confederation was quick to condemn the latest attacks and urged the Iraqi government to increase safety and security. While agency reports put the number of casualties at between nine and 12, the AFC said the bombing killed 15.
“It’s is disheartening to know that young lives were lost watching a football game. I would like to request the Iraqi government to ensure safety and security of spectators in and around stadiums,” said AFC President Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa.
Iraqi league club Karbala’s coach, Mohammed Abbas, died from injuries reportedly sustained after being beaten up by security forces during his side’s match against Air Force. Other Karbala players were seriously injured.
“The death of coach Mohammed Abbas is a loss to Asian football. On behalf of the Asian football family, I would like to express my deepest condolences to his family, friends and the entire Iraqi football family.
“I would like to wish a speedy recovery to Karbala players and would like to urge the security forces that their primary focus should be to protect the players and spectators and this act definitely deserves condemnation.
“The beautiful game is regarded as the best form to bring peace and harmony but certain elements are trying to use it for their personal benefit. I would like to strongly ask them to utilise the power of football for better means.”
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