On Aug. 19, a bomb attack took place at the Canal Hotel in Baghdad, targeting the UN Assistance Mission in Iraq. This was the first mass terror attack deliberately targeting the UN.

The bombing killed more than 20 people, including the world body's top envoy in Iraq, Sergio Vieira de Mello, and injured over 150 others.

The date was designated as World Humanitarian Day by the UN General Assembly in 2008 to mark the attack.

Meanwhile, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has issued a message for the world day.

"This year, we pay special tribute to women humanitarians and the huge difference they make for millions of women, men and children in urgent need," said Guterres.

He said from supporting civilians caught up in crisis to addressing disease outbreaks, women humanitarians are on the front lines. "Their presence makes aid operations more effective by increasing their reach."

He added that women's participation also improves the humanitarian response to gender-based violence, which increases during emergencies.

The UN chief called upon world leaders and all parties to conflict to ensure that humanitarians are protected from harm as required under international law.

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