EPP Group calls for safe release of Camp Ashraf hostages held by Iraqi Government

Reports have been received that the seven hostages taken from Camp Ashraf in Iraq, during the massacre on 1st September, are to be extradited to Iran in the next few days. The seven, six females and one male, were kidnapped during the attack that killed 52 and wounded many more. They are currently being held near Baghdad airport and have been on hunger strike since their abduction.

Extradition to Iran would result in grave danger of torture and death. These hostages are protected persons under the Fourth Geneva Convention and awaiting resettlement in third countries.

"I am deeply concerned over the plight of these hostages, as well as the lack of protection in both camps, which makes the residents vulnerable to further attacks. I call on European leaders, the UN and the US Government to ask for a thorough investigation into this atrocity, to call on the Government of Iraq for the safe release of the hostages and to secure UN protection of both camps until all residents are resettled," said Alejo Vidal Quadras.