The United Nations has denounced ISIL’s murder of a Japanese journalist Kenji Goto, as it called for the release of all hostages held by the Takfiri group operating in Iraq and Syria.

The United Nations has denounced ISIL’s murder of a Japanese journalist Kenji Goto, as it called for the release of all hostages held by the Takfiri group operating in Iraq and Syria.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the UN Security Council said that this "heinous and cowardly crime" is, yet again, a tragic reminder of the increasing dangers journalists and others face every day in Syria.

The 15-member Council also demonstrates the brutality of ISIL, which it said is responsible for thousands of abuses against the Syrian and Iraqi people.

Meanwhile, the Council demanded the immediate, safe and unconditional release of all those who are kept hostage by ISIL, Al-Nusra Front and all other groups associated with Al-Qaeda.

It also recalled that, in accordance with international humanitarian law, journalists, media professionals and associated personnel engaged in dangerous professional missions in areas of armed conflict are considered as civilians and shall be respected and protected as such.

In a separate statement issued on Sunday night, the UN Secretary-General  Ban Ki-moon also condemned the “barbaric” murder of Goto, saying that his death underscores the violence that so many have been subjected to in Iraq and Syria.

He expressed deepest condolences to Goto's family, as well as the people and Government of Japan. Ban reiterated his call for unconditional release of all hostages held by ISIL and other terrorist groups.