Iraq’s national security adviser discusses regional crisis with Turkish ambassador

BAGHDAD — National Security Adviser Qassem al-Araji met Monday with Turkish Ambassador Anil Bora Inan to discuss regional military developments and their impact on security and stability, with both sides emphasizing diplomatic efforts to halt the fighting.

Al-Araji said Iraq had conducted “a series of contacts with brothers and friends to stop the ongoing war,” expressing hope that “a pressing international diplomatic alliance” could contribute to stopping military operations and returning to dialogue. He also reaffirmed Baghdad’s commitment to developing ties with Turkey across political, security and economic areas, including counterterrorism cooperation.

The Turkish ambassador said Ankara had “intensified its diplomatic efforts through multiple contacts to contain the crisis, reduce tensions, and push toward the resumption of negotiations,” and expressed commitment to expanding cooperation with Iraq in economy, energy, the development road and security.

The meeting reflects Iraq’s broader diplomatic push to internationalize pressure for a ceasefire as the conflict enters its fourth week. Prime Minister Sudani urged NATO member states to stay out of the war in a call with Secretary General Mark Rutte last week, while the Foreign Ministry has repeatedly called for dialogue and warned that attacks on regional energy facilities risk destabilizing global markets. Iraq’s airspace has remained closed since Feb. 28, with the ninth consecutive extension running through noon Wednesday.