Iraqi leaders reject attacks on cities, Kurdistan Region

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s top leadership met Thursday at Baghdad Palace, rejecting attacks targeting Iraqi cities and governorates, including the Kurdistan Region, as “violations of national sovereignty” and calling for an immediate halt to military operations in the region.

The meeting brought together President Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, Parliament Speaker Haibat al-Halbousi and Supreme Judicial Council President Faiq Zaidan. The presidencies reiterated Iraq’s rejection of the use of its territory as a launching point for attacks against neighboring countries, while also condemning strikes on Iraqi soil.

The leaders reviewed the latest security and political developments and their impact on Iraq’s internal situation, stressed the importance of negotiation and diplomatic solutions, and urged the international community to act to prevent further expansion of the conflict.

The statement also affirmed support for government security measures, the protection of diplomatic missions and Iraq’s “balanced role in promoting stability in the region.” At the conclusion of the meeting, leaders called for holding accountable those who spread rumors through media outlets or social media platforms “in accordance with legal and judicial procedures.”

Erbil has been struck by more than 100 projectiles since the war began Feb. 28, with Iran-aligned Iraqi militias claiming responsibility for multiple attacks — strikes the KRG called “cowardly.” Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani, in a call with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, said the region “will not” be made “part of conflicts.”