US Airstrikes in Iraq Draw Criticism from Iraqi Government
Tensions have risen following the recent airstrikes conducted by the American administration on Iraqi territory, prompting strong criticism from the Iraqi government. The airstrikes targeted locations in the Akashat and Al-Qa'im regions, including areas with a presence of Iraqi security forces and nearby civilian areas.
According to the Iraqi government, the aggressive airstrikes resulted in a tragic loss of 16 lives, including civilians, and left 25 individuals injured. Considerable damage to residential buildings and citizens' property has been reported in the aftermath of the assault.
Despite the US claims of coordination with Iraqi authorities for the airstrikes, the Iraqi government vehemently denies any such collaboration. They assert that the American assertions are unfounded and designed to mislead international public opinion, accusing the US of violating international laws.
The American administration has carried out a new act of aggression against Iraq's sovereignty. In this incident, multiple American aircraft bombed locations in the Akashat and Al-Qa'im regions, including areas where our security forces are stationed, alongside nearby civilian…
— المكتب الإعلامي لرئيس الوزراء 🇮🇶 (@IraqiPMO) February 3, 2024
Iraq argues that the airstrikes further escalate the security situation in Iraq and the region, jeopardizing efforts to establish necessary stability. The government strongly rejects the notion of its territory being turned into a battleground for settling scores and urges all involved parties, particularly the United States, to refrain from using Iraq's land and sovereignty for displays of force.
The Iraqi government expresses deep concerns about the presence of the international coalition, suggesting that it may have deviated from its assigned tasks and become a destabilizing factor. They contend that the coalition's activities could serve as a justification for entangling Iraq in regional and international conflicts.
Despite the challenges, the Iraqi government asserts its commitment to safeguarding the nation's land, cities, and the lives of service members across all branches of its armed forces. The statement concludes with condolences for the lives lost and wishes for a speedy recovery for the wounded.
This development marks a significant point of tension between the United States and Iraq, with the Iraqi government criticizing the US for what they perceive as an unwarranted and damaging military intervention on their sovereign soil. The international community is likely to closely monitor the situation, urging a peaceful resolution to prevent further escalation.
