CNN Balkan Conflict News

Bombing attacks on civilian targets threaten peace process

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October 8, 1995
Web posted at: 11:00 p.m. EDT (0300 GMT)

From Correspondent Jackie Shymanski

TUZLA, Bosnia-Herzegovina (CNN) -- Cluster bomb attacks that killed and wounded civilians -- mainly children -- outside a U.N. "safe area" are putting a serious strain on the peace process in Bosnia.

A bomb exploded Sunday in a Muslim refugee camp south of Tuzla, killing at least six -- including four children -- and wounding more than two dozen. Shells also hit near the Tuzla airbase at a second camp. At least one person is believed to have died in that attack.

And another cluster bomb exploded (153K AIFF sound or 153K WAV sound) in central Bosnia, killing at least one child and injuring dozens.

Bosnia map

The U.N. called in NATO warplanes for protection, but the fighter planes were unable to locate Serb weapons believed responsible for the attacks. The mission was scrubbed due to bad weather, but the U.N. warned that the jets will be called in for bombing runs unless the Serbs stop firing.

The Bosnian government is now threatening to pull out of upcoming peace talks in light of the brutal attacks that filled area hospitals.

UNPROFOR

"Serb terrorists are continuing to kill our children," Bosnian Prime Minister Haris Silajdzic said on government radio Sunday. "I still have not had a chance to speak to President (Alija) Izetbegovic, but I think if these attacks continue, that we should postpone these negotiations until the international community is capable of obtaining such conditions which would secure the basic safety of our citizens."

hurt child

"We are talking about an attack on children here, a refugee camp, the murder of children," he said. "It is the worst kind of criminal."

The start of a nationwide cease-fire on Tuesday could also be in doubt, although Izetbegovic said on government television that the bomb attacks would not force a postponement. Still, other problems remain as the Tuesday deadline approaches.

With time running out, both aid officials and the warring sides are scrambling to turn the utilities back in Sarajevo - - a condition of the cease-fire agreement. Late Sunday, there was still no gas, water or electricity in the capital, putting the prospect for peace in peril.



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