Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein warned on Sunday that escalating conflict in the Middle East could threaten the security of the Gulf region and trigger a global energy crisis. Speaking at a joint press conference in Baghdad with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, Hussein stressed Iraq’s commitment to regional stability and its refusal to allow its airspace to be used for attacks on Iran.

"If the war spreads in the region, the security of the Gulf will be threatened, and there will be a deep energy crisis in the world," Hussein said. He further cautioned that extremist organizations such as ISIS could exploit the chaos to regroup. Hussein emphasized that the authority to declare war in Iraq lies solely with the state and its branches of power, while accusing Israel of attempting to draw Iraq into conflict.

Araghchi, who arrived in Baghdad for discussions, echoed Iraq’s stance on de-escalation. "Iran is not seeking war or the expansion of conflict across the region," he said, urging an end to hostilities in Gaza and Lebanon. The visit is part of a broader diplomatic effort by Iraqi officials, who plan to meet with leaders from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Lebanon to push for a resolution to the ongoing war.

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammad Shia' al-Sudani later met with Araghchi to discuss bilateral relations and regional developments. Al-Sudani reiterated Iraq’s priority of stopping Israeli military actions in Gaza and Lebanon and preventing further escalation in the region. He highlighted Iraq's diplomatic efforts to broker a ceasefire with the assistance of international partners, including the European Union.

Araghchi commended Iraq’s role in promoting peace and its humanitarian efforts, such as sending aid to Gaza and Lebanon. He reaffirmed that Iran's visit was focused on coordinating efforts to prevent the spread of war in the region.