Portrayal slammed as 'devoid of truth'

Fallout spreads in Iraq over British ambassador’s ‘unfounded’ comments on PMF

2024-08-19 | 15:32

BAGHDAD — The Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs has slammed British Ambassador Stephen Hitchen’s recent comments about Iraq’s security situation, labeling them “inaccurate and unfounded.” This rebuke came in a statement issued on Sunday, where the ministry also referenced ongoing unrest in the United Kingdom, highlighting “rising violence, racism, riots, and widespread crime and theft.”

The comments were made during his appearance on the “Bestoon Talk” program on Rudaw TV, where Hitchen discussed the integration of Popular Mobilization Forces into the state apparatus and the potential international risks posed by militias operating outside state control.

The statement expressed surprise at Ambassador Hitchen’s negative portrayal of Iraq: “We are surprised by the statements of our colleague, the British Ambassador Stephen Hitchen, concerning the situation in Iraq, which are mostly contrary to reality and devoid of truth.” The ministry accused the ambassador of having a biased view on bilateral relations, influenced by “desires, perceptions, and agendas” that hinder genuine mutual interests, especially at a time when Iraq is striving to bolster ties and foster a substantial partnership with the UK.

Officials emphasized significant advancements in Iraq’s stability and urban development, observable during Ambassador Hitchen’s tenure in the country. “It is the ambassador’s duty to convey these facts with honesty and professionalism to foster the cooperation both nations seek in various fields,” the statement asserted.

In a recent initiative to enhance diplomatic engagement, the British Embassy in Iraq launched the “Al-Safeer Show” on social media in late January, featuring Ambassador Hitchen exploring Baghdad’s historic Al-Rasheed Street.

The ministry acknowledged minor isolated incidents within Iraq but contrasted its situation with the UK’s current challenges, including a recent surge in crime and unrest.

This unrest in the UK was prompted by violent protests escalating into riots in early August 2024, following a tragic knife attack in Southport on July 29, which killed three young girls. Misinformation about the attacker’s identity fueled far-right groups, exacerbating the violence.

Yesterday, the foreign ministry summoned the United Kingdom’s chargé d’affaires in Baghdad to protest Hitchen’s remarks formally, expressing hope that he would “reassess” his views and present a more balanced perspective beneficial to both nations.

Iraq’s Dawa Party, led by former Prime Minister Nouri Al-Maliki, condemned Ambassador Hitchen for “overstepping his diplomatic role,” demanding an apology for his “provocative” comments that they claim misrepresent Iraq’s security situation.

The Dawa Party also cited the influx of millions of pilgrims to Karbala as proof of Iraq’s stability and security, reiterating their demand for an apology to maintain positive Iraq-UK relations.