Iraqi Deputy: Prime Minister Takes Unprecedented Measures to Prevent Targeting of Neighboring Countries

An Iraqi official stated that Prime Minister Ali al-Idabi has taken “unprecedented measures” to pursue those targeting neighboring countries, reiterating Iraq’s rejection of being used as a launching pad for attacks on its neighbors.

Meanwhile, Iraqi Member of Parliament Shakir al-Tamimi considered the prime minister’s steps “positive and on the right track regarding international and regional relations that serve Iraq, as well as all the security measures currently being implemented by the prime minister,” according to the Iraqi News Agency (INA).

He added: “We do not accept Iraq being dragged into this war... The government must manage a balance in the region with neighboring countries and with all states, and maintain good relations,” emphasizing the necessity that “Iraq serves as a bridge between the countries in the region.”

These remarks came after the Iraqi prime minister earlier today worked to calm tensions in the region and contribute to resolving its crises, noting that Iraq pursues an open foreign policy based on mutual respect and shared interests.

Al-Idabi also clarified that “Iraq is facing exceptional economic challenges at this stage, amid the repercussions of the war in the region and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz,” during a meeting with a group of heads of research and think tanks in the country.

These comments come as the file of monopolizing weapons under state control in Iraq has entered a more sensitive phase, amid Iranian pressures related to the future of weapons held by militias close to Tehran, coinciding with negotiations between the government and these militias regarding the mechanisms for handing over weapons and the conditions for implementing the process.