It has come to my attention, that my image, taken in Iraq in 2003, has been inadvertently misused by news organisations around the world, reportedly including Secretary of State, John Kerry, as being in relation to the uprising in Syria – I wish to assure you that this is not the case. As a photojournalist it is my duty to document events as and how they unfold, reflecting neither political disposition nor judgment. This is a responsibility I hold to the highest importance and I am concerned to learn my work has been misrepresented in this way without the proper due diligence.

To clarify, I took the image in 2003, when working on a story titled Iraq, the aftermath of Saddam, which can be viewed on my website.

I don’t desire to comment any further therefore if you have any more questions feel free to contact Getty Images the agency from which I am represented.

Thanks and best regards.

Marco Di Lauro