Iraq backs diplomatic efforts, urges NATO restraint amid Iran war

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani stressed the need for de-escalation and diplomacy during a phone call with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, warning against the widening of the war against Iran, his office said.

According to a statement released by Sudani’s office, the two sides discussed the latest developments in the region, with a focus on what Baghdad described as a “dangerous escalation” in the ongoing conflict involving Iran.

Sudani affirmed Iraq’s support for international efforts aimed at halting the ongoing US-Israel war against Iran, restoring stability, and reinforcing security across the region. He emphasized the importance of dialogue as the primary means to resolve disputes, urging all parties to avoid military confrontation.

Iran and its proxies have targeted US bases and interests in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region since the start of the war. 

The Iraqi premier also reiterated Baghdad’s commitment to “ protect embassies and diplomatic missions operating in Iraq as part of their constitutional duties and responsibilities.”

He further underscored Iraq’s rejection of any use of its territory or airspace to launch attacks against other countries, stressing that the government is working to prevent further escalation and spillover of the conflict.

Sudani called on NATO member states to refrain from involvement in the war, urging them instead to intensify efforts to promote dialogue and reach a diplomatic solution.