EU boosts humanitarian aid to Iraq with extra €25m

The European Commission has announced an extra €25 million in aid for the victims of the worsening humanitarian crisis in Iraq.

The funding will help the internally displaced people, including those who recently fled the fighting in Ramadi, Anbar governorate, with water, food, sanitation, shelter, medical supplies and health care.

EU Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management Christos Stylianides expressed his growing worry about the victims of the conflict.

"The number of people in need of life-saving assistance in Iraq has increased by 400% in less than a year. As fighting continues, the end of this crisis is still out of sight. This means our humanitarian aid is more needed than ever," he said.

"I urge all parties involved in the conflict to protect civilians and allow them safe passage when seeking safety from conflict-affected zones," the Commissioner added.

With the recent increase, the Commission's humanitarian aid for Iraq in 2015 stands at more than €63 million.