Peregraf
Hoshyar Zebari, a senior member of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) politburo and former Iraqi foreign minister, has publicly criticized ongoing political movements in Iraq, particularly those led by former Speaker of Parliament Mohammed al-Halbousi. Zebari accused Halbousi and others of endangering the country’s stability.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Zebari expressed concerns about what he described as “persistent efforts by materially benefiting and adventurous politicians” to drive Iraq into deeper crises.
He warned: "There is currently a political movement in Iraq to spare the country the risk of slipping into the Middle East, the Levant, or West Asia flood. We are with caution and support for our national government to preserve our experience, but there are persistent efforts by some materially benefiting and adventurous politicians to drown the country in crisis, headed by Mr. Mohammed al-Halbousi, instead of proposing a comprehensive national project to correct the course.”
Zebari’s comments come as Halbousi engages in a flurry of political meetings and consultations. The former parliament speaker, who was removed from his post by the Federal Court—an action some analysts described as influenced by Iranian interests—has initiated discussions with Sunni political leaders, tribal sheikhs, and influential figures to address regional developments.
One of Halbousi’s key focuses is the impact of the escalating crisis in Syria on Iraq and the broader region. According to a statement released after a meeting of Sunni political leaders chaired by Halbousi, Iraqi Sunnis support political change in Syria and respect the will of the Syrian people to shape their future. This stance contrasts with the position of Iraqi Shiite leaders, who are aligned with Iran and oppose such changes in Syria.
Halbousi’s recent meetings with Sunni tribal leaders and prominent figures are seen as part of a broader effort to consolidate Sunni unity and influence amidst the evolving regional dynamics.
Zebari’s pointed critique highlights the deepening divisions within Iraqi political circles, with national unity and governance stability at stake. Halbousi has yet to respond to Zebari’s allegations, but his ongoing political maneuvers are being closely watched as tensions in Iraq and the region continue to rise.