Iraq will not allow attacks against Saudi Arabia, GCC countries from its territory: FM

RIYADH: Iraq will not allow its territory or airspace to be used as a launchpad for any actions or attacks against Saudi Arabia, regional or GCC countries, the country’s foreign minister said during a meeting with his Saudi counterpart on Sunday.

The meeting between Fuad Hussein and Prince Faisal bin Farhan highlighted the importance of national sovereignty, good neighborliness, non-interference in internal affairs, and the rejection of the use of any country’s territory to threaten others’ security and stability, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

Iran-backed armed groups in Iraq have reportedly carried out drone strikes against Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Jordan, and Syria since Feb. 28 after the US launched Operation Epic Fury, which killed top Iranian officials and severely damaged the country’s military and air defense capabilities.

Prince Faisal and Hussein highlighted the need to support Iraq’s security, stability and national institutions, the SPA said.

Iraqi authorities under Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi recently launched a nationwide anti-corruption campaign, arresting at least 47 officials and seizing $120 million. Al-Zaidi, who was sworn in two months ago and is visiting Washington, D.C., on Monday, has vowed to combat corruption and establish a government monopoly over weapons.