UNITED NATIONS, April 4: The United Nations has expressed concern over the humanitarian situation in Iraq in the wake of recent clashes between Iraqi forces and Shia militias in Basra.

“The conflict has claimed more than 700 lives and around 1,500 people are injured”, UN Humanitarian Coordinator for Iraq David Shearer told reporters. “The casualties may increase,” he added.

He called for an end to clashes and access of aid workers to the affected areas for the delivery of food items and other vital supplies.

“Unfortunately, today access in Iraq is often hindered by hostilities and restrictions on movement,” Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs John Holmes told reporters in Amman. “Aid workers must be able to reach people for timely assistance.”

Mr Holmes said the UN and its partners were working to alleviate plight of Iraqi people, while keeping in mind the safety of aid workers.

The UN relief chief, who is unable to go to Iraq because of security reasons, travelled to Amman to discuss the humanitarian situation with officials concerned.

Noting an increase in the humanitarian needs of Iraqi people, he called for improving security to expand relief efforts.

“We are scaling up the emergency response wherever conditions allow, and hope that the $265 million appeal launched in February will be fully funded by donors,” he stated.