Baghdad has strongly condemned an Israeli letter to the United Nations Security Council accusing Iraq of enabling pro-Iran militias to launch attacks across the Middle East. The Iraqi government dismissed the claims as a “pretext to justify aggression” and reaffirmed its commitment to peace in the region.

The Israeli letter, sent on Monday by Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, called for “immediate action” against what it described as Iranian-backed militias operating from Iraq. The letter urged the UN to ensure Iraq “fulfills its obligations” by preventing its territory from being used as a base for attacks on Israel and other nations.

Iraqi Government's Response

In a statement issued after a council of ministers meeting on Tuesday, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani rebuffed the accusations, emphasizing Iraq’s sovereignty and rejection of war threats. The statement denounced the letter as “an attempt to expand the ongoing war in the region.”

“The Prime Minister reaffirmed Iraq’s refusal to be drawn into the conflict,” the statement read. “Decisions of war and peace rest solely with the Iraqi state, which continues to focus on ending the conflict and providing humanitarian aid to the Palestinian and Lebanese peoples.”

Regional and International Reactions

The Israeli accusations follow a series of rocket and drone attacks by pro-Iran militias targeting US military installations in Iraq and Syria, as well as drone and missile strikes on Israel. These attacks are believed to be retaliatory measures in response to Washington’s support for Israel in its conflict with Gaza.

The United States also weighed in on the issue. “Iraq should do everything within its power to stop terrorist attacks, both within its borders and against targets outside its borders,” US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller stated during a press briefing on Tuesday.

Rising Tensions in the Region

The conflict, which began with Hamas’s unprecedented attack on Israel on October 7, has escalated, spreading to Lebanon and raising concerns of further regional destabilization. Israeli officials recently reported casualties from a suicide drone launched from Iraq that struck a military base in the Golan Heights.

Despite these developments, Iraqi officials have consistently denied allegations that its territory is being used as a launchpad for attacks on Israel. In early November, the Iraqi government labeled such claims as attempts to drag Iraq into the ongoing conflict.

Calls for De-escalation

As tensions continue to rise, Iraqi leaders have reiterated their opposition to involvement in the war, focusing on humanitarian efforts and diplomatic measures to address the crisis. Baghdad’s stance highlights its broader commitment to maintaining stability and avoiding escalation in an already volatile region.