Hakim calls for ‘full protection’ of diplomatic missions as attacks escalate

BAGHDAD — Hikma Movement leader Ammar al-Hakim called Tuesday for full protection of diplomatic missions in Iraq, saying they represent “a bridge for communication between countries and peoples” and “a fundamental pillar in the stability of international relations and the safeguarding of shared interests.”

“Diplomatic missions represent a bridge for communication between countries and peoples, and they play key roles in strengthening ties and consolidating relations between them,” Hakim wrote on X. “Hence, the importance of providing full protection for them and ensuring their security, as they are a fundamental pillar in the stability of international relations and the safeguarding of shared interests.”

The statement comes as attacks on diplomatic compounds have intensified following an airstrike on a house in Baghdad’s Arasat area hosting leaders of Kataib Hezbollah, which killed the group’s security chief Abu Ali al-Askari and three others. Drone attacks on the U.S. Embassy compound have increased in the two days since, with a fresh strike Tuesday evening also targeting the Victory Base Complex near Baghdad International Airport, setting off explosions heard across the capital and activating air defense systems at both sites.

The Al-Rasheed Hotel, housing the Saudi embassy and the EU Advisory Mission, was struck by a drone Monday night. The UAE Consulate General in Erbil has been hit twice in a week.

Supreme Judicial Council President Faiq Zaidan said Tuesday that attacks on diplomatic missions constitute a “serious crime” under Iraqi law, with penalties that “may reach the death sentence” under the Anti-Terrorism Law. Iraq’s government has repeatedly condemned the attacks and pledged to pursue those responsible. The strikes have continued.