UN chief voices fears over Somalia airstrikes

New United Nations secretary general Ban Ki-moon fears that US bombing in southern Somalia could increase hostilities and harm civilians, some of whom are reported to have been killed in the air strikes.

“Notwithstanding the motives for this reported military action,” spokeswoman Michele Montas said early today, “the secretary general is concerned about the new dimension this kind of action could introduce to the conflict and the possible escalation of hostilities that may result.