A double suicide attack in the southern Iraqi city of al Nasiriyah earlier today has caused a large number of civilian deaths and has injured many more.

The EU expresses its deepest condolences to the families of the victims.

The attack comes just as the successful military, territorial campaign against Da'esh is nearing a close, and Iraqis of all backgrounds are starting to tackle the post-conflict challenges with a view to constructing a stable and peaceful Iraq.

The EU reiterates its support to the Iraqi government and people in achieving this vision.