Iraq’s Araji tells EU ambassadors country is ‘neutral’, vows to protect diplomatic missions

BAGHDAD — National security adviser Qassem al-Araji met Sunday with European Union ambassadors accredited to Iraq, stressing that the country is not part of the regional war and reaffirming its commitment to protecting diplomatic missions following multiple attacks.

Araji told the diplomats Iraq maintains a “neutral” stance aimed at supporting stability, and briefed them on measures taken to secure embassies and diplomatic facilities.

He stressed “the importance of the presence of diplomatic missions in Iraq and their ability to carry out their work normally,” according to the statement.

EU ambassadors said the bloc is not involved in the war, thanked the Iraqi government for its protection efforts, and condemned attacks targeting the Kurdistan Region and other sites across Iraq. Both sides agreed to continue regular meetings to exchange views on current challenges.

The meeting came a day after the U.S. Embassy inside Baghdad’s Green Zone was struck and the UAE Consulate General in Erbil was hit for the second time in a week, wounding two security guards. The KRG condemned the Erbil strike and called on Baghdad to ensure the protection of diplomatic missions. The UAE described the attack as a “flagrant violation of all international norms and laws.”

The Kurdistan Region has faced at least 200 drone, missile and rocket attacks since the war began Feb. 28, killing four people and injuring 19, according to Community Peacemaker Teams – Iraqi Kurdistan. The attacks have struck military installations, diplomatic facilities, airports, oil sites and residential areas across Erbil and Sulaymaniyah governorates.