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Iraq: Iran

Answer

The US received assurances from the Iraqi authorities making clear their commitment to the humane treatment and continued well-being of the camp residents. We understand that in addition to this the Iraqi Ministry of Human Rights have also visited the camp and delivered these assurances to a representative body of the residents. We are naturally concerned that the rights of all those involved in the process are observed and that they continue to be treated humanely and their fundamental human rights be maintained. In this regard, we understand that as a result of their extensive contacts the US are satisfied that the Iraqi authorities are fully aware of their responsibilities with regard to Camp Ashraf and its residents.Both the Iraqi authorities and the US had been involved in discussions with the UN High Commissioner for Refugees and the UN Assistance Mission for Iraq on the modalities of the hand over of responsibility for the camp. The Iraqi Ministry of Human Rights also played a key role in overseeing the transition. In addition we understand that the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) discusses, on a confidential basis, all of the issues surrounding the camp with the People's Mujahedin Organisation of Iran and the Iraqi and US authorities. The ICRC follows developments at the camp closely and visit regularly.You will also wish to note that, while residents of the camp were treated as 'protected persons', this was exercised at the good will of the US authorities in charge at the time and was not granted through any legal obligation under international law.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

488 c1201-2W; 256771

Session

2008-09

Subjects

Iraq Iran

Link

View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk