Iraq has formally lodged a complaint with the United Nations Security Council, alleging that the Israeli Air Force used its airspace to carry out an attack on Iran on October 26. In an official statement issued on Monday, Iraqi government spokesman Basim Alawadi condemned what he called a blatant violation of Iraq’s sovereignty and territorial integrity by Israel.
Alawadi emphasized that Iraq "will not allow its airspace or land to be used for attacks on other nations, particularly neighboring countries with whom it shares mutual respect and interests." This strong stance, according to the spokesman, is in line with Iraq’s ongoing commitment to maintaining regional stability and preventing the country from becoming a staging ground for conflicts involving other regional powers.
Iraq’s proximity to Iran makes the incident particularly significant, as the two countries share a border of approximately 1,500 kilometers. The relationship between Iraq and Iran is also deeply intertwined, with Iran wielding considerable influence over its neighbor. Several Iraqi political parties have strong ties to Tehran, and many of the country’s militias remain loyal to the Iranian regime. This influence has long shaped both Iraq’s domestic politics and its foreign policy positions.
Iraq’s protest, however, is not directed solely at Israel. Baghdad also expressed concerns about the United States' role in the matter, noting that U.S. forces exercise control over Iraqi airspace as part of ongoing military cooperation between the two countries. The Iraqi government stated that it intends to raise the issue with the United States to seek clarification and ensure that Iraq's airspace is not being used without its consent.
Alawadi's statement reflects the delicate balancing act Iraq faces in its foreign relations. While the country has worked to maintain a strong partnership with the United States, it must also manage its close ties to Iran, a key regional player. The violation of its airspace underscores the broader challenges Iraq faces in navigating the complex web of alliances and rivalries in the Middle East.
In its communication to the United Nations, Iraq has framed this incident as part of its broader effort to uphold the principles of sovereignty and non-intervention. The complaint is expected to spark further discussions at both the international and regional levels, as Iraq seeks to prevent its territory from being drawn into escalating tensions between Israel, Iran, and the broader international community.
