Iraq’s national security adviser visits EU ambassador, pledges tighter protection

BAGHDAD — National Security Adviser Qassem al-Araji visited EU Ambassador Thomas Seiler at his residence Monday, reiterating Iraq’s commitment to protecting diplomatic missions and outlining tightened security measures put in place for embassies operating in the country.

Al-Araji said Iraq has taken “strict security measures to protect diplomatic missions and embassies,” and stressed Baghdad’s commitment to building “solid relations with European Union countries and brotherly and friendly states, in a way that preserves mutual interests and enhances opportunities for development and constructive cooperation.”

Seiler said EU countries are keen on their diplomatic, political and economic relations with Iraq, and praised “the efforts of the Iraqi government in supporting directions to end the ongoing conflict in the region and its steps in maintaining the security and stability of the region and the world.”

The visit comes after repeated attacks on diplomatic sites across Iraq since the regional war began Feb. 28, including multiple strikes on the U.S. Embassy compound in Baghdad’s Green Zone, a drone strike on the Al-Rasheed Hotel housing the Saudi embassy and the EU Advisory Mission, and two attacks on the UAE Consulate General in Erbil. Each attack has drawn condemnations and pledges from Iraqi authorities to pursue those responsible. The strikes have continued regardless.