United Nations, Oct 19 (UNI) The Security Council has expressed concern over recent reports of violence near the city of Kirkuk in northern Iraq. According to media reports, the city was reportedly seized by Iraqi Government forces from Kurds. “Council members called on all sides Wednesday to refrain from the threat and use of force, and to engage in constructive dialogue as a pathway to de-escalation and a means to preserve Iraqi unity while upholding the provisions of the Iraqi constitution,” said a press statement issued by the 15-member body. The Council reaffirmed its respect for the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and unity of Iraq, as well as the importance of remaining focused on efforts to defeat the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL/Da'esh). The Council likewise voiced its full support for UN efforts to facilitate dialogue between Iraqi stakeholders. UNi XC-SNU 1012