Al-Mandalawi, ex-PM Al-Abadi call for unity as regional threats loom

BAGHDAD — First Deputy Speaker of Parliament Mohsen Al-Mandalawi and Victory Coalition head Haider Al-Abadi on Saturday called for unified national efforts to keep Iraq “away from the dangers and challenges facing the region” during a meeting in Baghdad.

The two leaders discussed recent political developments, parliament’s legislative priorities, and Iraq’s position in a volatile regional environment. “There is a need for all national forces to join efforts to keep Iraq away from the dangers and challenges facing the region,” Al-Mandalawi’s office said in a statement.

Their appeal for unity comes as Iraq faces potential strikes from Israel and the United States against militias operating within its borders, especially in light of U.S. military actions against Houthi positions in Yemen. Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein acknowledged that Israel continues to issue threats against Iraq but said their impact is no longer as serious as it had been in the past.

Full statement from Al-Mandalawi’s office:

The First Deputy Speaker of the Council of Representatives, Mr. Mohsen Al-Mandalawi, received this evening, Saturday, at his residence, the head of the Victory Coalition, Mr. Haider Al-Abadi, along with a number of accompanying coalition members, to discuss the latest political developments on the local scene.

During the meeting, condolences were exchanged on the anniversary of the martyrdom of the Commander of the Faithful “peace be upon him,” and discussions were held regarding the work of the Council of Representatives and the legislation it is working to pass in the coming period, especially those directly related to citizens’ affairs. The meeting also addressed key developments in Iraq and the region, and emphasized the need for all national forces to join efforts to keep Iraq away from the dangers and challenges facing the region.

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