Baghdad: Iraq has reaffirmed its position of not allowing its territory to be used as a base for launching attacks against neighboring countries, according to government spokesperson Haider Al-Aboudi. Al-Aboudi emphasized that the government has not authorized any attacks from within its borders and remains committed to maintaining peaceful relations with its neighbors.
According to Iraqi News Agency, Al-Aboudi made these comments during an interview on "Hiwar Al-Youm" aired on Al-Iraqiya News TV. He highlighted that a series of attacks occurred in seven Iraqi provinces shortly after Prime Minister Ali Falih Al-Zaidi returned from an official visit to Turkey. The government was alerted to these attacks at 2:50 a.m., prompting an immediate response from the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, who convened a meeting with military leaders to address the situation.
The Ministerial Council for National Security has condemned the attacks, viewing them as an infringement on Iraq's sovereignty. Al-Aboudi reiterated the government's dedication to diplomacy and dialogue to prevent further regional crises. He noted that Iraq seeks to maintain partnerships and good-neighborly relations, emphasizing non-involvement in regional conflicts.
The shelling resulted in the loss of over 18 members of the Popular Mobilization Forces and injuries to 20 others. Al-Aboudi stressed Iraq's strategic position at the center of regional conflicts and its commitment to a balanced foreign policy. Efforts have been made to verify allegations of attacks, including requests for evidence from Saudi Arabia, but investigations have found no supporting evidence.
Al-Aboudi also addressed the security situation, noting that the international coalition's presence in Iraq is set to end by September 30. On the economic front, Iraq is taking steps to secure its oil exports, including agreements with Turkey to implement the Development Road Project. The ongoing closure of the Strait of Hormuz poses challenges to the state budget, prompting the government to consider domestic and external borrowing to ensure salary payments.
In response to geopolitical developments, Iraq's foreign policy is driven by economic interests and a stance of non-alignment. Al-Aboudi mentioned that technical issues delayed the signing of a memorandum of understanding with Turkey, but he reassured that the Ceyhan corridor remains a viable route for oil exports. The government is committed to addressing the economic impact of regional crises through collaboration with Turkey on oil export studies.