Peregraf
Iraq's Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein has disclosed that Israel recently sent written threatening letters to Baghdad. Previously, these threats were conveyed through audio messages.
"We received the letter through a third party. It was an audio message before, but now we have received a written letter. The letter was clearly a threat to Iraq. The matter has even reached New York, with a direct letter sent by the Netanyahu government," Hussein stated this during the MEPS conference held in Duhok earlier today.
The Iraqi Foreign Minister emphasized that Iraq is working to avoid being drawn into the ongoing conflict.
Former FM Warns of Potential Escalation
Former Iraqi Foreign Minister Hoshyar Zebari expressed concerns about the likelihood of an Israeli attack on Iraq. Speaking at the MEPS conference, Zebari stated, "Although the Iraqi government has tried hard to stay out of the current war, pressures on Iraq are intensifying. The actions of armed groups could provoke a strong Israeli response in the near future."
U.S. Issues Warning to Baghdad
The United States has issued a stark warning to Iraq, urging the government to restrain armed groups launching attacks on Israel from Iraqi territory. Washington cautioned that it might not be able to prevent an imminent Israeli airstrike, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.
Israel has also lodged a complaint with the UN Security Council, accusing Iraq of harboring pro-Iranian Shiite groups responsible for attacks against Israel.
Iraq’s Firm Response
In response, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani convened an emergency meeting of the Ministerial Council for National Security on November 19, 2024. The council firmly rejected Israel’s accusations, labeling them a pretext for aggression.
The council asserted that only the Iraqi government holds the authority to make decisions on war and peace. It warned that Israel’s allegations risk destabilizing the region and called on international actors to prioritize dialogue.
Iraq urged the UN Security Council to address Baghdad’s previous complaints against Israel and appealed to the League of Arab States for collective action. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs was directed to intensify diplomatic efforts to counter threats.
Strengthening National Defenses
Prime Minister al-Sudani ordered the reinforcement of Iraq’s western borders, the enhancement of air defense systems, and the activation of emergency response plans to safeguard the nation.
Regional Implications
These developments highlight the growing complexities in the Middle East as Iraq navigates internal security challenges, escalating diplomatic tensions, and broader regional crises.