Iraq rejects attacks on Gulf states, vows to block cross-border strikes

ISTANBUL

Baghdad on Thursday rejected any attacks targeting Gulf states or Jordan, saying the security of Arab countries is “an integral part” of Iraq’s national security.

In a statement, the Iraqi Foreign Ministry said the government “categorically rejects any aggression or targeting” of Gulf countries and Jordan, emphasizing that regional stability is a shared interest for all peoples.

It added that Iraq remains committed to a “balanced foreign policy” based on cooperation and mutual respect, and is working with regional and international partners to “enhance security, stability and reduce tensions” to avoid further escalation.

The government also affirmed it is continuing to take necessary measures to address security challenges “in accordance with the constitution and the law,” noting that Iraqi security agencies are coordinating with counterparts in “brotherly and friendly countries.”

Baghdad expressed its “full readiness” to receive any information or evidence regarding attacks launched from Iraqi territory against neighboring states and to address them “responsibly and swiftly.”

The statement stressed Iraq’s rejection of using its territory to launch attacks on other countries, adding that the government is committed to safeguarding sovereignty, strengthening relations, and preventing actions that could undermine regional security.

On Wednesday, Gulf countries and Jordan strongly denounced Iranian attacks as a “flagrant violation” of their sovereignty and territorial integrity, affirming their full right to self-defense.

In a joint statement, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Jordan said attacks carried out by Iran or its proxies constitute “a violation of international law, international humanitarian law, and the United Nations Charter.”

Regional escalation has continued since the US and Israel launched a joint offensive on Iran on Feb. 28, killing more than 1,340 people, including then-Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.

Tehran has retaliated with drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, as well as Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf countries hosting US military assets, causing casualties and infrastructure damage while disrupting global markets and aviation.

With the outbreak of the war on Iran, several Iraqi factions have carried out dozens of attacks targeting US sites inside the country and across the region.