Iraqi Foreign Minister Reaffirms Commitment to Regional Security
Iraq will not permit its territory or airspace to be utilized as a launchpad for any actions or attacks against Saudi Arabia, regional countries, or the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein declared during a meeting with his Saudi counterpart, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, in Riyadh on Sunday.
The meeting, reported by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), emphasized the importance of national sovereignty, good neighborliness, non-interference in internal affairs, and the rejection of using any country’s territory to threaten the security and stability of others.
Context of Iran-Backed Armed Groups
The assurance comes amid reports that Iran-backed armed groups in Iraq have carried out drone strikes against Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Jordan, and Syria since February 28, following the US launch of Operation Epic Fury. That operation killed top Iranian officials and severely damaged Iran’s military and air defense capabilities.
Support for Iraq’s Stability and Anti-Corruption Efforts
Prince Faisal and Hussein also highlighted the need to support Iraq’s security, stability, and national institutions, according to the SPA. Iraqi authorities under Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi recently launched a nationwide anti-corruption campaign, arresting at least 47 officials and seizing $120 million. Al-Zaidi, sworn in two months ago and visiting Washington, D.C., on Monday, has vowed to combat corruption and establish a government monopoly over weapons.
