Baghdad: Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein affirmed that terrorism has failed to break the will of the state or disrupt the progress of Iraqi diplomacy. He noted that the Ministry has maintained Iraq’s presence and relations, continuing to build bridges of communication with countries and international organizations, defending Iraq’s interests and positions, and strengthening its standing and role in the regional and international arenas.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, during a ceremony commemorating the Ministry’s martyrs, the Foreign Minister highlighted the impact of a terrorist attack on the Ministry, which claimed the lives of 82 individuals, including 45 Foreign Ministry employees. He emphasized the sacrifices made by these individuals in reaffirming the importance of the diplomatic mission in defending Iraq and opposing extremist ideologies.

Minister Hussein described the attack on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as an assault on the symbol of the Iraqi state and its diplomatic voice. Despite the devastation, he asserted that terrorism has not succeeded in silencing institutions or impeding their role in defending Iraq’s sovereignty.

He further explained that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, despite the challenges, continues to fulfill its responsibilities, maintaining Iraq’s presence and relations, and strengthening its role on both regional and international stages. The Foreign Minister noted that the Ministry has been a target of multiple attacks, with a significant incident occurring in 2014, resulting in additional casualties.

The Iraqi government has undertaken efforts to rebuild the ministry building, support the wounded, and ensure the rights of the martyrs’ families. Minister Hussein highlighted the active role of Iraqi diplomacy in combating terrorism and working with international partners to eradicate extremist ideologies and eliminate safe havens.

Expressing gratitude to countries that supported Iraq in its fight against ISIS, the Foreign Minister emphasized Iraq’s ongoing efforts to consolidate security and stability, enhance international relations, and address regional and global challenges. He concluded by reiterating the Ministry’s commitment to defending Iraq’s sovereignty and interests, as envisioned by the martyrs.