Baghdad, EU discuss containing Middle East war spillover

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani held a phone conversation with Ursula von der Leyen to discuss the deteriorating regional situation and the broader security implications of ongoing military conflict, according to a statement from the Iraqi leader’s office.

During the call, both sides highlighted the worsening conditions across the region, pointing to increasing instability and the growing risk of population displacement as the conflict continues.

Al-Sudani outlined Iraq’s proposal to establish a diplomatic alliance aimed at facilitating an end to the war. He stressed that the repercussions of the conflict are being felt across the entire region, including Iraq, and reaffirmed Baghdad’s commitment to safeguarding diplomatic missions. He also voiced opposition to attacks targeting oil infrastructure.

The Iraqi prime minister expressed appreciation to several European countries for declining to take part in the war and urged governments to repatriate their nationals detained for links to the Islamic State.

For her part, von der Leyen welcomed Iraq’s efforts to prevent further escalation, endorsing dialogue as the primary mechanism for resolving the crisis. She also expressed support for Baghdad’s proposed diplomatic initiative.

By Tamilla Hasanova