The Security Council this afternoon said that the Iraqi aircraft that flew from Baghdad, Iraq, to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on 9 April had done so without consultation with the Security Council Committee established to monitor sanctions against Iraq.

In a statement read out by its President, Antonio Monteiro (Portugal), the Council noted that on 3 February the Government of Iraq had requested clearance from the Committee, established pursuant to resolution 661 (1990), for the release of $50 million from frozen Iraqi assets being held in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates to cover pilgrimage costs, and requested the Committee's agreement for flights by Iraqi Airways to transport pilgrims to Jeddah during the holy pilgrimage season.

According to the Council statement, the Committee had responded on 3 March that it would be in a better position to consider the release of the funds if the request were to be submitted by a country willing to release the funds in question. The Government of Iraq then proceeded with the flight without specific consultation with the Committee.

The Council drew to the attention of Member States their obligations under resolutions 661 (1990), 670 (1990) and other relevant resolutions. The Council also underlined its respect for the obligation of Muslims to perform the Hajj.

The meeting, which began at 1:10 p.m., was adjourned at 1:13 p.m.

For further details please see official record:
S/PV.3768

For further details please see source:
MEETINGS COVERAGE

View moreView less