Oxfam welcomes Australian Government’s $10m of aid to support Mosul’s civilians

Emergencies, Foreign aid, Humanitarian Advocacy, Media Releases, News article written on the 18 Oct 2016

Oxfam welcomes today’s announcement by the Australian Government of $10 million in life-saving support for Mosul’s civilians, as fighting in the city intensifies.

The humanitarian organisation further urges the Australian Government to do what it can to advocate for the protection for civilians fleeing fighting, as Iraqi troops and Kurdish forces, supported by the Coalition, attempt to retake the city from ISIS.

Oxfam’s Humanitarian Policy Advisor Dr Nicole Bieske emphasised the seriousness of the situation for civilians trapped in Mosul.

“Families in Mosul face a terrible choice between staying in ISIS controlled areas where many have reportedly suffered extreme violence and food shortages, or risking explosive devices and bullets to escape the fighting,” Dr Bieske said.

“All armed forces should avoid the use of heavy weapons in built-up and populated areas and do everything possible to protect fleeing civilians.”

Hundreds of thousands of people are expected to flee Mosul as the assault continues, and will need assistance.

Oxfam is scaling up its existing operation in the area known as the Mosul Corridor to provide civilians who flee the fighting with clean drinking water, toilets, blankets and other vital aid.

Oxfam has spokespeople available – both in Australia and in Iraq.

Donations to support Oxfam’s emergency responses around the world can be made online.

 For interviews or more information, please contact Dylan Quinnell on 0450 668 350 or dylanq@oxfam.org.au