Washington, DC – Responding to reports of violence as Iraqi security forces assumed control of Ashraf, House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Howard L. Berman (D-CA) and Ranking Member Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL) today released the following statement:

“We are concerned about recent reports of violence between Iraqi security forces and residents of Ashraf. The Government of Iraq signed an agreement with the United States guaranteeing the physical security and protection of Ashraf residents following the withdrawal of U.S. forces from the area. The Iraqi government must live up to its commitment to ensure the continued well-being of those living in Ashraf and prevent their involuntary return to Iran.”