Baghdad: Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein affirmed on Wednesday that terrorism has failed to break the will of the state and disrupt the progress of Iraqi diplomacy, noting that the ministry has maintained Iraq’s presence and relations and continued to build bridges of communication with countries and international organizations, defending Iraq’s interests and positions and enhancing its status and role in the regional and international arenas.

According to Iraqi News Agency, the Foreign Minister spoke during a ceremony commemorating the martyrs of the ministry. He highlighted the loss of 82 lives, including 45 employees of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, due to a terrorist attack. The attack also left many wounded, illustrating the severe impact on the ministry and its personnel.

He expressed reverence and loyalty to the martyrs’ sacrifices, acknowledging their role in defending Iraq and revealing the true nature of extremist ideologies. Targeting the Ministry of Foreign Affairs was an attempt to silence Iraq’s diplomatic voice, but it failed to break the state’s will or disrupt Iraqi diplomacy.

Hussein emphasized that the Ministry continued its responsibilities, maintained Iraq’s relations, and defended its interests, enhancing its status in regional and international contexts. He recalled past attacks on the ministry, including a deadly incident in 2014, and noted the government’s efforts in rebuilding, treating the wounded, and supporting martyrs’ families.

He affirmed Iraq’s active role in combating transnational terrorism, collaborating with international partners to eradicate extremist ideologies, cut funding sources, and eliminate safe havens. He expressed gratitude to countries that supported Iraq against ISIS and other terrorist organizations.

Hussein concluded by stating that the best way to honor the martyrs is for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to continue defending Iraq’s sovereignty and interests, serving its people, and enhancing its global presence and standing.