"Major efforts are being made by the Iraqi security forces to protect civilians. All the parties to the conflict — all of them — are obliged under international humanitarian law to do everything possible to protect civilians and ensure they have access to the assistance they deserve and need," added Ms. Grande.

More than 29,000 people have been displaced following the launch of a military offensive to retake the city of Mosul three weeks ago. An additional 37,000 people have been displaced from Hawiga district since early August.

The majority of displaced families are being sheltered in emergency sites and with host communities. Humanitarian agencies are providing life-saving assistance to displaced families and to people in newly retaken areas. New emergency sites are being constructed and emergency supplies continue to be pre-positioned. In accordance with humanitarian principles, assistance is being distributed on the basis of assessed needs and vulnerabilities.

For further information, please contact: Karim Elkorany, Office of the DSRSG/RC/HC for Iraq ( This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. / +964 790 193 1292)