Press Release

OPEC Fund extends grant of US$200,000 to help stampede victims in Iraq

100/2005 September 8, 2005, Vienna, Austria
Press inquiries:

The OPEC Fund for International Development has extended a grant of US$200,000 to provide relief supplies and support emergency operations in the aftermath of the deadly stampede that took place in Baghdad, Iraq on August 31, 2005.

A peaceful religious celebration turned to tragedy when panic broke out among a crowd of around two million people, who had gathered to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Musa Al-Kadhum. Most of the victims were women and children who were either drowned or trampled while trying to cross the Al-A’imma Bridge. Latest reports indicate that some 1,200 people have died and more that 940 have been severely injured. These numbers are expected to rise.

The Iraqi Red Crescent Society (IRCS) has declared the incident a national emergency and has delivered blankets, first aid supplies and water to local hospitals. Tents have been erected in the hospital grounds to serve as temporary shelters for treating the wounded.

Although the international community has responded generously to appeals for assistance, public hospitals in Baghdad are still in urgent need of items such as emergency first aid kits, stretchers, sheets, blankets, oxygen masks and other items.

The OPEC Fund's contribution to the aid effort will be channeled through the IRCS.