Iraqi PM denounces Israeli ‘threats’, highlights democratic progress

BAGHDAD — Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani condemned recent perceived threats by Israel, labeling them as “baseless pretexts revealing its aggressive intentions,” during a ceremony held by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday to commemorate the ministry’s centennial.

“The Zionist entity has threatened Iraq with baseless justifications that expose its hostile intentions,” Al-Sudani stated. “We have directed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to address these threats in international forums to prevent further escalation in the region.”

This statement follows a recent development where Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar sent a letter to the United Nations Security Council, urging immediate action against attacks on Israel conducted by Iranian-backed militias in Iraq. Sa’ar emphasized Israel’s right to self-defense and called for measures to prevent Iraq from being used as a base for attacks against other nations.

In response, Iraq’s Foreign Ministry sent official letters to the UN Security Council, the Arab League, and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, denouncing Israel’s threats and seeking support to prevent further escalation. The ministry emphasized Iraq’s sovereignty and its commitment to peace in the region.

The prime minister emphasized Iraq’s foundational role in global diplomacy. “Iraq is one of the founding members of the United Nations and its affiliated organizations, granting it significant international presence and influence during pivotal regional events,” he said.

Reflecting on Iraq’s diplomatic progress, Al-Sudani acknowledged the challenges of the past. “Iraq suffered from isolation due to the policies of the former dictatorial regime, but it quickly regained its central role and stature after 2003,” he noted. “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has preserved the essence of diplomatic work and traditions while adapting to the needs of the new Iraq.”

Al-Sudani highlighted the ministry’s contributions to Iraq’s modern identity. “The ministry has effectively represented the new Iraq, contributing to peace, security, and openness. We have adopted the principle of ‘productive diplomacy’ as the cornerstone of our foreign policy,” he explained.

He outlined the government’s focus on strengthening regional and international ties. “Since the start of this administration, we have prioritized enhancing relations with neighboring countries and the world, hosting numerous international events,” he said. “The launch of the Development Road project serves as both a diplomatic and economic initiative, underscoring Iraq’s commitment to progress.”

The Development Road project is a $17 billion initiative aiming to transform Iraq into a transit hub by connecting the Grand Faw Port to Turkey’s border through a 1,200-kilometer network of railways and highways, enhancing regional connectivity and economic growth.

On Iraq’s evolving partnerships, Al-Sudani said, “We reinvigorated the Strategic Framework Agreement to structure our relations with the United States and leveraged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to conclude the mission of the international coalition, transitioning to comprehensive bilateral relations.”

The prime minister also celebrated Iraq’s achievements under his administration. “We take pride in completing the political and institutional framework of the state,” he remarked. “We agreed to end the UNAMI political mission and continue collaborating with specialized UN agencies.”