Iraq condemns recent US airstrikes as violation of sovereignty

Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein declared on Wednesday that the recent surge in US military actions poses a significant threat and infringes upon Iraq’s sovereignty. These remarks were made during a meeting with US Ambassador Alina Romanowski, as reported by the Iraqi News Agency (INA).

Hussein expressed the Iraqi government’s disapproval of the recent US airstrikes targeting sites associated with the Popular Mobilization Forces in Jurf Al-Nasr, Babylon governorate. The strikes, conducted without the knowledge of the Iraqi government, resulted in at least five casualties on Wednesday.

The Iraqi government’s spokesperson, Basem Al-Awadi, had earlier criticized the escalation, deeming it a dangerous move that constitutes an unacceptable violation of Iraqi sovereignty.

The US Central Command defended its actions, stating that the strikes were a direct response to attacks on American and coalition forces by Iranian-backed groups. The Pentagon reported that US forces in Syria and Iraq have faced 55 attacks since October 17, with 27 in Iraq and 28 in Syria. These attacks have left 59 US personnel injured.

The rising tensions are situated in a broader context, partly influenced by the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. The United States swiftly provided military support to Israel after a cross-border attack by Hamas, leading to an intensified Israeli offensive against Gaza.

Approximately 2,500 American soldiers are deployed in Iraq, offering advisory support in the fight against ISIS, while around 900 soldiers are stationed in Syria. The geopolitical landscape remains tense as diplomatic discussions unfold to address the complex web of regional conflicts.