Middle East News

Clinton urges restraint in Ashraf

Jul 29, 2009, 20:32 GMT

Washington - US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton urged the Iraqi government and an Iranian opposition group to exercise restraint as a second day of clashes continued in Camp Ashraf.

'We are urging restraint on both sides,' Clinton said, while adding the Iraqi government now has the responsibility for security at the camp.

'Although the US government remains engaged and concerned about this issue, it is a matter now for the government of Iraq to resolve in accordance with its laws,' she said during a press conference with British Foreign Secretary David Miliband.

Iraqi security forces entered Camp Ashraf on Tuesday intending to place it under control of Baghdad. Camp Ashraf has served as the base for Iranian rebels known as the People's Mujahidin of Iran.

More than eight people in the camp have died and hundreds have been injured during the clashes. The PMOI, also known as the MEK, is regarded by Washington and Iran as a terrorist organization.