Media Release: March for peace and justice in Iraq

From: Peace Action Wellington

Date: Wednesday, March 17, 2006



On Saturday, March 18 people from around the world will march to mark the

third year of occupation in Iraq, the fourth year of occupation in

Afghanistan and to express outrage at the threat of military action in

Iran. In Wellington, people will converge on Midland Park at 12 noon and

march to the US Embassy. Other actions are also planned in Auckland,

Christchurch and Dunedin.



"Thousands more people are being tortured, raped, kidnapped and murdered

as the illegal and immoral occupations in both Iraq and Afghanistan

continue. The only solution is for the United States and all foreign

troops to withdraw immediately and allow the people there to determine

their own futures, free of interference and intimidation." said Peace

Action Wellington member Valerie Morse



"The New Zealand Government must cease its involvement in the so-called

War on Terrorism. The 'War' is simply a convenient name for pursing the US

foreign policy goals of domination and strategic control of the Middle

East and Central Asia. NZ is currently assisting by providing troops to

serve in Afghanistan, intelligence information from the spy base at

Waihopai and support for the referral of Iran to the UN Security Council."



"The blood of hundreds of thousands of people are on the hands of George W

Bush, Tony Blair and John Howard. On the eve of Blair's visit to Auckland,

Helen Clark should find the courage to condemn Blair's war crimes and hold

him to account."



"We will never forget the crimes against humanity being committed in our

names in these countries and we will struggle for an end to the

occupations until justice is done. Join us in solidarity with the people

of Iraq, Afghanistan and around the world this Saturday."



ENDS



For more information, see Peace Action Wellington's website

http://www.peacewellington.tk or ring media spokesperson Valerie Morse 021

232 7749