“Iraq already has 1 million displaced people who are highly dependent on food handouts for their survival. If war begins, our Save the Children colleagues in Iraq estimate that a further 2 million people will be forced from their homes.

“Save the Children is preparing to assist those likely to be displaced in Iraq, stocking up on supplies of cooking kits, jerry-cans, warm children’s clothes, plastic sheeting and other essential goods for displaced families.

“But if borders close, as neighbouring countries have indicated, it will be extremely difficult for aid to reach Iraq; massive displacement will make it even more difficult to reach families in need.

“Save the Children commends the Prime Minister for continuing to explore all diplomatic solutions to the current stand-off, and urges her Government to continue to lobby the key international players to take all possible steps to avert war."

Mr Bowis also warns that the consequences of war in Iraq are global, as the desperate needs of other countries are at risk of being overshadowed by the conflict in Iraq.

“War will create unnecessary destruction requiring billions of dollars for reconstruction -money that is desperately needed in other parts of the world.

"The oil for food ration, which 60 percent of Iraqis are dependent on for food, is likely to be cut off in the event of war, resulting in most of the Iraqi population requiring emergency food aid.

“This will severely stretch the aid resources of donor governments, including the United States and the UK. Emergency food aid that is desperately needed now for over 10 million people in Southern Africa and Ethiopia could be diverted to Iraq.

“Save the Children’s work in northern Iraq since 1991 has made real improvements for children by building schools, medical centres, roads, bridges and a water network. In a country where 25% of the children are chronically malnourished and 60% of the population is dependent on food aid, these fragile gains will be shattered if war begins."

ENDS

For more information phone Save the Children on 04 385 6847 or email info@scnz.org.nz