Aid agencies batten down the hatches in Iraq.

Iraq (MNN)–The murder of Iraq’s Red Crescent director and his wife on April 10th is prompting other foreign aid agencies to pull back until the tensions simmer down.

Several of World Vision’s New Zealand team happened to be on Easter break in Jordan, where they will remain until another security assessment April 18th. 67 Iraqi staff will not withdraw, although they will not be able to work with the offices closed.

Kidnappings are also a growing concern. More than 40 foreigners from at least 12 countries have reportedly been kidnapped in recent days by insurgents. While it’s not clear if the rebels are targeting aid agencies, the murders of the Iraqi Red Crescent staff raised concerns.

Please pray for the safety of those involved with meeting physical and spiritual needs in Iraq during this time.