UN calls on both the parties to abide by the IUnternational law

Deploring the recent bomb blasts in passenger buses in the south, the UN has condemned the deliberate targeting of civilians.

In a statement issued on Monday, the UN has reminded both the parties of their obligation under International Law to take measures to safeguard civilians caught in the conflict.

Vakarai "grave" situation

The government accused the Tamil Tigers of planting the bombs that killed at least 20 people. Over 100 people sustained injuries.

There was no immediate response from the LTTE.

We stand ready to assist those still trapped in Vaharai. These persons are the most vulnerable of the vulnerable United Nations acting Resident Coordinator, Amin Awad

The UN has called on the Government to allow humanitarian agencies to LTTE-held Vakarai, where the situation "is grave and demands an urgent response".

United Nations acting Resident Coordinator, Amin Awad, said thousands of civilians are still trapped in Vakarai without access to most basic needs.

"We must always recall that it is the most weak who remain behind - the elderly, the sick and the disabled. They are still without access to food, emergency medical services, and shelter, and continue to be caught in the middle of relentless fighting," Awad was quoted in the statement.