Iraq Pledges Neutrality and Gulf Security Amidst Potential US-Iran Conflict

Iraq is firmly committed to safeguarding the security of Gulf states and will maintain a neutral stance if a war between the United States and Iran reignites, according to Iraq's national security adviser. Qasim Al Abudi emphasized a broad national consensus within Iraq that the country must not be drawn into or become a participant in such a conflict.

Following the resumption of the Middle East war, initiated by US and Israeli strikes against Iran in February, Tehran-backed armed factions operating within Iraq have launched drone and missile attacks targeting Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and the UAE. Mr. Al Abudi stated in an interview with The National, on the sidelines of the annual IISS Manama Dialogue security forum in Bahrain, "Iraq is committed to the security of its neighbours, and we will do everything possible to prevent any threat to them originating from Iraqi territory." He further clarified the government's position: "The government's position is clear, and there is national consensus that we remain detached and neutral." While acknowledging that sympathy for one side or the other might exist, Mr. Al Abudi stressed the government's responsibility to ensure these sentiments do not escalate into action.

"We are always concerned about any war. It is the worst possible way to resolve problems, and it undoubtedly has serious repercussions for everyone," he remarked. "We have now seen that the impact of the war has not been limited to the region; it has affected the entire world. Iraq, in particular, has been hit hard. For months, we were unable to export our oil, and the economic situation was extremely difficult." He reiterated, "As for the possibility of some parties becoming involved, there may naturally be sympathies here and there. But it is the government's responsibility to ensure that such sympathies do not translate into action."

Iraq has reportedly made progress in its efforts to bring weapons held by armed factions under state control. An interim agreement reached in June did not secure a lasting ceasefire in the Iran war nor restore normal shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has since proposed that Washington lift its blockade of Iranian ports in exchange for Tehran reopening the waterway within seven days. Qatari mediators have returned to Tehran in a renewed effort to broker a deal, though the sides remain divided on whether nuclear negotiations or relief from the blockade and oil sanctions should take precedence.

Regarding the control of weapons held by armed factions, Mr. Al Abudi indicated that Iraq is on the right track and has achieved significant progress in a short timeframe. "The issue had been raised, discussed and eventually shaped into a clear national framework within just a few months," he said. Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein expressed confidence earlier this month that the country would meet the June 30, 2027, deadline for bringing weapons held by armed groups under state control, despite resistance from some influential Iran-aligned groups. The initial deadline was September 30, coinciding with the end of the US-led coalition's military mission in Iraq, but it was later extended.

On relations with Kuwait, Mr. Al Abudi stated that Baghdad is eager to resolve outstanding differences, including disputes over the maritime boundary and the Khor Abdullah waterway, as well as the long-standing issue of Kuwaitis missing since Iraq’s 1990 invasion and Kuwaiti property seized during that period. Both countries have recently intensified efforts to address these disputes, agreeing in September to form a joint working group. Mr. Al Abudi mentioned his personal visits to Kuwait and discussions held by several Iraqi delegations with Kuwaiti officials, describing disagreements between neighbours as normal but emphasizing that they should not overshadow long-standing ties. He urged Kuwait to enhance economic cooperation and investment in Iraq, suggesting this could bolster bilateral relations and ease sensitivities. Iraqi Prime Minister Al Al Zaidi intends to visit Kuwait soon.

Concerning the threat posed by ISIS, Mr. Al Abudi asserted that Iraq has largely defeated the group, with remaining small groups operating in remote areas and the overall security situation under control. ISIS lost its territorial stronghold in Iraq in 2017, but remnants continue sporadic attacks. Recent monitoring indicates a reduced operational presence rather than a resurgence of large-scale insurgency. Mr. Al Abudi confirmed ongoing cooperation with regional and international partners through the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS, including intelligence sharing. He attended a coalition meeting in Rome where participating countries renewed their commitment to cooperation against ISIS and other terrorist groups. Mr. Al Abudi highlighted the importance of addressing the ideological dimension of combating ISIS, stating, "We need to dry up the ideological sources that feed these groups," pointing to religious schools, curriculums, academies, and institutions as areas requiring sustained regional effort.