United States Condemns Attack on Swedish Embassy in Baghdad
In the early hours of July 20, 2023, the Swedish Embassy in Baghdad fell victim to an unlawful act of violence as protestors breached the compound for a second time, causing damage and chaos. Matthew Miller, the spokesperson for the United States, delivered a strong condemnation of the attack, highlighting the importance of freedom of peaceful assembly in a democratic society.
The attack on the Swedish Embassy in Baghdad has drawn international attention and concern, with the United States expressing its deep disappointment over the failure of the Iraqi Security Forces to prevent protestors from entering the diplomatic mission.
In his statement, Miller emphasized that foreign missions should not be subjected to such violence and urged the Government of Iraq to fulfill its international obligations in safeguarding diplomatic missions. Under international law, it is the responsibility of the host country to ensure the protection of all diplomatic missions on its soil, safeguarding them from any intrusion or damage.
وزارة الخارجية الأمريكية
— U.S. Embassy Baghdad (@USEmbBaghdad) July 20, 2023
بيان صادر عن المتحدث باسم وزارة الخارجية الأمريكية
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الهجوم على السفارة السويدية في العراق
تُدين الولايات المتحدة بشدة الهجوم الذي وقع على السفارة السويدية في بغداد في الساعات الأولى من صباح يوم 20 تموز. تعد حرية التجمع السلمي ركيزة أساسية… pic.twitter.com/jCtSOxBJQY
The attack took place just ahead of a planned Koran-burning protest in Stockholm, Sweden, marking the second such protest in less than a month. The Iraqi government had previously condemned the event.
The United States has reached out to Swedish authorities, offering support and solidarity following the attack on their diplomatic mission. In the face of such violence, both countries stand together in advocating for the protection of diplomatic missions worldwide.
As the situation unfolds, global attention remains focused on how the Iraqi government will respond to this breach of international law and safeguard foreign missions within its territory. Further developments and actions are expected to address this serious matter.