Iraqi president condemns strike on intelligence HQ as violation of sovereignty

BAGHDAD — Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid condemned Sunday’s drone strike on the National Intelligence Service headquarters as “a blatant violation of Iraq’s sovereignty, security and stability,” extending condolences to the family of the officer killed and calling for those responsible to be brought to justice.

Rashid said Iraq has been subjected to repeated attacks on its security, military and civilian institutions, and that the region faces “sensitive and exceptional circumstances that require all parties to work seriously to overcome them.”

Prime Minister Sudani visited the intelligence headquarters the same day, directing authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and publicly name those responsible. “Whoever dares to shed Iraqi blood does not represent Iraq, and no justification can legitimize this crime,” Sudani said.

The Saturday strike on the Mansour district headquarters was the latest in a sustained wave of drone and rocket attacks on government facilities, diplomatic missions and military sites since the regional war began Feb. 28. The U.S. Embassy compound has been struck multiple times. The Al-Rasheed Hotel, housing the Saudi embassy and the EU Advisory Mission, was hit by a drone. The UAE Consulate General in Erbil was targeted twice in a week. NATO completed the withdrawal of all its personnel from Iraq on March 20. Each attack has drawn condemnations and pledges to pursue those responsible. The strikes have continued regardless.