The announcement comes as new Iraqi government figures show civilian deaths are at their highest level in six months. At least 923 civilians were killed in March, up 31 percent from February. Around 500 people have been killed in the past week’s US-Iraqi government offensive against Shia forces loyal to Muqtada al-Sadr. On Tuesday, an Iraqi Red Crescent official said the US is still blocking aid convoys to the Sadr City area of Baghdad.

Uday Abou Tebekh: “Until now, we did not get an approval from the Multi National Forces to enter (Sadr City). We are working hard and wait to get the approval of the MNF to enter the city and distribute aid to our sons and brothers in the Sadr City.”