ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani on Monday told the United Kingdom’s Foreign Secretary David Cameron that Baghdad is committed to protecting military advisors in the country, but stressed that Iraq’s sovereignty must be respected.
The two discussed Iraq-UK relations, enhancing bilateral cooperation, and the latest regional developments, specifically the Israel-Gaza war, over the phone.
Sudani “emphasized the Iraqi government's dedication to safeguarding military advisors within Iraqi borders, reaffirming Iraq's refusal of any infringement on its sovereignty under any circumstances.”
Cameron highlighted the UK’s eagerness for stronger relations with Baghdad, and extended an invite to the Iraqi premier to visit the UK early next year.
US troops in Iraq and Syria have come under a series of rocket, drone, and missile attacks since October 17 by Iran-backed militia groups condemning the American government’s unwavering support for Israel in its war against Gaza.
The Iraqi government previously denounced the attacks on US personnel in the country and stated Baghdad’s commitment to safeguarding diplomatic missions in Iraq. However, an American retaliatory attack against the pro-Iran groups which killed eight members of the government-linked Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) triggered heavy backlash from Baghdad, who condemned the attack and labeled it as “a violation” of Iraq’s sovereignty.
US President Joe Biden wrote in a letter to the congressional leadership last week that Washington stands ready to pursue further action against Iran-affiliated militias in Iraq and Syria in accordance with the its right to self-defense.
The UK is a member of the US-led global coalition against the Islamic State (ISIS) and has trained Peshmerga forces since 2014.
