Baghdad: Today, newspapers in Baghdad highlighted Iraq's significant role in mitigating regional conflicts and the acclaim it has received internationally for its efforts to halt aggressive actions in Gaza and Lebanon. The publications also continued their coverage of the ongoing pollution issues within the country. According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Zawraa newspaper, published by the Iraqi Journalists Syndicate, extensively covered the proactive measures taken by Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani to mitigate the risk of war affecting Iraq. The paper cited a statement from Vian Sabri, a member of the Parliamentary Foreign Relations Committee, emphasizing the critical need for Iraq's intervention to not only protect its interests but also to stabilize the region as a whole. Security expert Fadel Abu Raghif praised Iraq's collaborative actions with Saudi Arabia, which have included mediating discussions between Iran and Saudi Arabia, aiming to de-escalate tensions in Lebanon and the broader regio n. Further reporting by Al-Zawraa revealed comments from government spokesman Bassem Al-Awadi, who detailed recent diplomatic engagements by the Prime Minister with ambassadors from the United States, Russia, and China. These meetings were part of ongoing efforts to prevent the escalation of conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon and to ensure regional stability. Meanwhile, Al-Sabah newspaper reported an expansion in international support for Iraq's diplomatic initiatives, particularly in its attempts to stop attacks on Palestine and Lebanon. The European Union, through Ambassador Thomas Seiler, expressed backing for Iraq's de-escalation efforts. Seiler highlighted the shared objectives of preventing a regional war and condemned serious insults directed at religious figures, which could incite hatred. On the environmental front, Al-Zaman newspaper provided updates on the pollution crisis in Iraq. The Parliamentary Health and Environment Committee disclosed that 95% of pollution originates from public sector institu tions. Majid Shankali, head of the committee, criticized the short timeframe set by Prime Minister al-Sudani for identifying pollution sources, noting the longstanding issue of air pollution in Baghdad, exacerbated by industrial activities and inadequate waste management. Environmental officials pointed to the adverse weather conditions, such as high humidity and specific wind patterns, which contribute to the visibility and intensity of sulfur odors in Baghdad. The Ministry of Environment is seeking special funding to enhance its capabilities to address these environmental challenges effectively.
