Iraq rejects use of its territory for attacks against Saudi Arabia

Iraqi Speaker of Parliament Heibat al-Halbousi has condemned recent attacks against Saudi Arabia, reaffirming Iraq's refusal to allow its territory or airspace to be used to threaten the security of the Kingdom or neighboring nations. In a telephone call with Saudi Shura Council Chairman Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Al-Sheikh, al-Halbousi stated that such activities do not align with Iraq's foreign policy or its relationships with regional neighbors.

The diplomatic engagement follows drone attacks targeting the ‘East-West’ Saudi oil pipeline in the Riyadh and Madinah regions last Thursday. The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported that the drones originated from Iraqi territory, resulting in human casualties and material damage. While Riyadh initially opted not to retaliate to allow the Iraqi government time to secure its borders, the Kingdom maintained its right to protect its sovereignty.

Iraqi investigations identified the launch site within the Maysan Governorate in southern Iraq. In response, Iraqi authorities have taken several security measures, including the dismissal of the Maysan operations commander and the provincial police chief, as well as referring several security officials for investigation and closing certain border crossings.