Iraq Warns of Escalating Tensions in the Middle East Due to Israeli Attacks

Acting Iraqi Parliament Speaker Mohsen Al-Mandalawi has warned that the Middle East is rapidly heading towards increased escalation due to ongoing Israeli attacks on Lebanon, Iran, and Syria, as well as alleged acts of genocide against the Palestinian people.

In a statement reported by the Iraqi News Agency (INA) on Thursday, Al-Mandalawi called for European Union countries to play a more proactive role in pressuring Israel to halt its alleged crimes and to stop the genocide in Gaza. He emphasized the importance of stabilizing the entire region.

The statement was made during a meeting between Al-Mandalawi and Thomas Sailer, Head of the European Union Delegation to Iraq, and his accompanying delegation. The discussions focused on the nature of relations between Iraq and EU countries, as well as broader international relations under Iraq's new diplomatic policy aimed at fostering positive relations with all parties.

During the meeting, Al-Mandalawi also advocated for the activation of the partnership agreement between Iraq and the EU, which has recently come into effect. He called for a new phase of openness, dialogue, and cooperation to counter hate speech and to promote constructive economic collaboration that protects shared interests.