EU condemns militant attacks in Iraq

The European Union Sunday strongly condemn the latest attacks by the Islamic State (IS) and other armed groups in Iraq.

"We are appalled by the rapid deterioration of the humanitarian situation with hundreds of thousands civilians, mainly from minorities, fleeing the areas of conflict as a result of persecution and violation of basic human rights," Xinhua quoted the European External Action Service (EEAS), the EU's foreign policy arm as saying in a statement.

The EEAS noted that some of these acts may constitute crimes against humanity and must be investigated swiftly, so that the perpetrators are held accountable.

"We call on all parties to abide by international humanitarian law, ensure humanitarian access and facilitate the delivery of assistance," the statement added.

The US military Saturday launched four air strikes against forces of IS in Iraq, US Department of Defence tweeted.

US warplanes also bombed several Islamist fighters in the first two rounds of strikes near the northern Iraqi city of Erbil Friday.