Baghdad, Iraq – In remarks reflecting the extent of the geopolitical pressures facing Iraq amid the current regional escalation, caretaker Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani confirmed on Monday
that Iraqi airspace is being subjected to continuous violations by US aircraft and Iranian missiles and drones.
He also stressed Baghdad’s rejection of turning its territory into an arena for settling international scores.
Violation of air sovereignty
In an interview with the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, General al-Sudani,
in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces,
explained that the most significant security challenge today is not the resurgence of terrorism
or the threat of civil war-which he considered under control with the pursuit of limited cells-
but rather the “violation of Iraqi airspace sovereignty.”
Al-Sudani strongly condemned the American strikes targeting the Popular Mobilization Forces,
describing them as an unacceptable attack. He noted that they resulted in martyrs and wounded.
Commenting on the volatile regional situation, al-Sudani accused Israel of instigating wars and violating international law.
He emphasized that Iraq is following this escalation with grave concern,
especially given its location at the heart of a highly complex region
where the conflicting interests of international and regional powers are intertwined.
Increased pace of raids and movements
Despite the harsh criticism directed at the warring parties, al-Sudani affirmed
that the Iraqi government is adopting a strategy of “distancing itself” from any conflict.
He asserted that Baghdad possesses a competitive advantage
in maintaining “good relations” with both Tehran and Washington simultaneously.
He added, “This dual relationship empowers us to play the role of diplomatic mediator, bridging the gap
between the conflicting parties—a role we are working to strengthen
to ensure internal stability and protect Iraq’s national security.”
These statements come at a highly sensitive time, as concerns grow
about the spillover of tensions in the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz into Iraq.
This situation presents al-Sudani’s government with a difficult test in balancing its relations with the major powers.
The government is also striving to prevent Iraq from becoming a battleground for proxy wars,
given the increasing frequency of airstrikes and military operations
that violate the country’s sovereignty and jeopardize its stability.
