UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan said on Tuesday the United Nations is ready to provide humanitarian assistance to Iranian people after an earthquake early Tuesday hit southeastern Iran.

In a statement released by the secretary, Annan said he was deeply saddened by the heavy loss of life and destruction suffered by the Iranian people after the earthquake, which killed at least 370 people and injured nearly 1,000 others.

He extended his deepest condolences to the people and government of Iran, especially to the families of the hundreds who have been killed and injured in the earthquake.

The secretary also noted the United Nations is organizing assessment missions to the affected region and stands ready to assist in efforts to respond to the humanitarian needs created by the disaster.

(Xinhua News Agency February 23, 2005)