Iraq pledges to neighbors to prevent attacks from its territory
Baghdad – Agencies: Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Faleh Al-Zaidi emphasized “preventing any transgression or threat emanating from Iraqi territory toward neighboring countries.” A government statement said that Al-Zaidi chaired an emergency meeting to discuss security developments in the region, stressing during the meeting “the formation of a joint security committee to confront challenges” and directing the establishment of deterrent mechanisms to prevent the recurrence of such incidents or any potential violations. Al-Zaidi also directed “Iraqi security agencies to enforce the law, enhance security and stability, and fulfill their responsibilities in protecting sovereignty and good neighborly relations.” The meeting affirmed “the readiness of the armed forces to thwart any attempt targeting neighboring countries within our regional environment” and reiterated their firm commitment to not allowing Iraqi territory to be used as a launching point or corridor for aggression against fraternal and friendly states.
On Wednesday, the United States and Saudi Arabia carried out joint airstrikes targeting “logistical sites and weapons warehouses” linked to armed terrorist groups in Iraq loyal to Iran. Later, the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) militia said the strikes killed at least 20 people and injured 32 others.
Last week, Saudi Arabia announced it had intercepted drone attacks it said originated from Iraq and were aimed at oil facilities in eastern Saudi Arabia. Since assuming office, Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi has faced a complex challenge in containing Iran-backed armed factions, amid escalating tensions and repercussions of the regional confrontation between Washington and Tehran. The issue of monopolizing weapons and the use of force by the state is among the most complex files on Al-Zaidi’s agenda, given the expanding influence of armed factions and their strengthened role following the 2014 war against the “Daesh” (ISIS) group.
Observers note that these factions are no longer mere combat formations but have evolved into entities possessing arsenals of missiles, drones, and surveillance systems, along with substantial financial resources and influence within state institutions. Against this backdrop, Iraq has become one of the most sensitive arenas of regional competition, due to its geographic location and the interplay of active forces, with some armed factions becoming part of Iran’s regional network.
Separately, a senior Jordanian official told CNN Arabic that the Kingdom had informed Iraq of its intention to launch strikes against Iran-backed armed factions if they attack Jordan. The official stressed that Jordan would respond to any attacks originating from Iraqi territory directed at the Kingdom.
