The Ministry of External Affairs called the recent attack a blatant disregard for international humanitarian law

Strongly condemning the recent killing of civilians in shelling in the Kurdistan region of Iraq, India said on Monday that the incident was a clear violation of the country’s sovereignty.

According to reports, 9 people lost their lives and 23 people were injured in an attack carried out in the Zakho district last week. Zakho is a commercial centre and tourist hub in northern Kurdistan.

"India strongly condemns the recent killings in the Zakho district of Dohuk Governatorate, Kurdistan Region of Iraq, which is a clear violation of the country's sovereignty and a blatant disregard for international humanitarian law", the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.

"India expresses its deepest condolences to the families who lost their loved ones in the dastardly attack, and wishes the injured a speedy recovery" the MEA added.

India also conveyed its stand and condolences in messages inscribed today in condolence books opened by Government of Iraq in Baghdad and Embassy of Iraq in New Delhi.