Al-Sudani, top judge discuss institutional unity as regional conflict deepens

BAGHDAD — Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani met Tuesday with Faiq Zaidan, president of Iraq’s Supreme Judicial Council, to emphasize cooperation between the executive, judicial, and legislative branches amid escalating regional tensions and what officials describe as repeated violations of Iraqi sovereignty.

According to a statement from Al-Sudani’s office, the meeting addressed the importance of a unified national stance to safeguard Iraq’s stability during a critical period. The two leaders underscored the need for institutional coordination in responding to regional developments, particularly the ongoing exchange of fire between Israel and Iran.

Now in its sixth day, the conflict has seen Israeli airstrikes continue to target Tehran and other Iranian cities, while Iran has launched hundreds of ballistic missiles and drones in retaliation. Iraqi officials have expressed growing concern that the country could be drawn into the conflict, particularly after missiles reportedly crossed Iraqi territory en route to Israel.

Baghdad has also accused Israel of using Iraqi airspace to carry out some of its strikes, which Iraq says constitutes a breach of sovereignty. Officials have repeatedly highlighted that Iraqi airspace remains under U.S. control as part of the countries’ bilateral security agreement.

Amid rising fears of a broader conflict, U.S. President Donald Trump has warned Iran against pursuing nuclear weapons and signaled the potential for increased American involvement, with military reinforcements already positioned in the region.

Iraq has kept its airspace closed to all civilian flights since the escalation began, citing safety risks from active missile routes and regional air traffic congestion.

Full statement from Al-Sudani’s office:

Prime Minister Mohammed S. Al-Sudani met today, Tuesday, with the President of the Supreme Judicial Council, Mr. Faiq Zaidan. The meeting included a review of cooperation among the executive, judicial, and legislative authorities and the importance of unified efforts during this critical period, especially in light of the ongoing regional crises.

The meeting affirmed condemnation of the Zionist violation of Iraqi airspace and expressed support for the government’s efforts to take legal action on the international stage and before UN bodies to uphold Iraq’s rights and prevent any form of infringement on its sovereignty. It also condemned the Zionist aggression against Iran and the resulting escalation of regional tensions.