Iraq calls for avoiding actions that could harm bilateral relations.
Baghdad, Iraq – The Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned the Iranian Ambassador to Baghdad, Mohammad Kazem Al-Sadegh, to inquire about posts published on official accounts of some Iranian diplomatic missions abroad. These posts included maps of the region accompanied by comments and positions that the Iraqi side deemed inconsistent with the depth of bilateral relations and the requirements of good neighborliness. The Iraqi News Agency (INA) reported that the meeting was held by the Undersecretary of the Ministry for Multilateral and Legal Affairs, Ambassador Shorsh Khalid Saeed. The purpose of the meeting was to seek clarification regarding the regional maps published on the accounts of Iranian embassies, including the Iranian Embassy in Kenya.
The roots of the crisis and the infringement on sovereignty and identity
During the meeting, the Iraqi side stressed the need to avoid any statements or comments that could harm the nature of bilateral relations. It also asserted that these publications infringe upon the sovereignty and geographical and historical identity of Iraq and the countries of the region. Furthermore, the controversial material revolves around two main issues: the first concerns the use of the term “Persian Gulf” instead of “Arabian Gulf” on maps published by Iranian missions. This is an issue that continues to be a source of political and public sensitivity in Iraq and the Arab world. The second issue relates to claims accompanying the maps alleging that the name “Iraq” has Persian origins. This has provoked widespread resentment in both official and public circles.
Ongoing coordination and crisis containment
On the bilateral front, the Undersecretary emphasized the importance of continued consultation and coordination between Baghdad and Tehran regarding current developments and their direct impact on the security of the region and Iraq. He also stressed the need to address all outstanding regional issues and disputes through official diplomatic channels and direct dialogue. Furthermore, the two sides discussed mechanisms for developing bilateral relations in the political, economic, and security spheres. They also discussed strengthening joint coordination within international organizations and forums.
In a sign of a swift containment of the crisis, the controversial posts and maps were removed from the official accounts of the Iranian missions after the summons, in order to avoid escalating diplomatic tensions. During the meeting, the Iranian ambassador affirmed his country’s full commitment to continued cooperation and diplomatic coordination to resolve all outstanding issues through official channels. This was a conciliatory message following the firm Iraqi action.