UNICEF warns of grave health risks for those trapped in Sadr City

Fighting between Shia militia and U.S.-backed Iraqi government forces has made the Sadr City area of Baghdad largely inaccessible to aid workers and has put over 150,000 residents of the capital at risk of losing access to clean water, food, and medical aid, BBC News reported Tuesday, citing the United Nations children’s agency (UNCIEF).

Iraqi government forces backed by US troops having been trying to disarm Shia militiamen loyal to radical cleric Muqtada al-Sadr for the past seven weeks. The fighting has severely damaged water and sewage pipes, exposing residents to serious health risks.

Meanwhile, hospitals are reporting shortages of medical supplies while many health clinics are closing because they are in areas too dangerous to use.

UNICEF wants improved access to be able to help those in need and address unconfirmed reports that children are being recruited into Shia militias.

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