The Iraqi government on Monday, December 30, has condemned the US airstrikes on militia bases in the country, calling it “sinful” and a violation of its sovereignty.
At least 25 fighters were killed in the US attack on the Iranian-backed Hezbollah Brigades on Sunday. Officials said the airstrikes were carried out in retaliation for the killing of a US civilian contractor in a rocket attack on an Iraqi military base.
Prime minister Adel Abdul-Mahdi issued a statement from the national security council saying the attacks would force Iraq to review its relationship with the US-led international coalition fighting the remnants of Isis.
The US airstrikes have raised fears of escalating armed conflict between the US and Iran in Iraq, which is already struggling to recover from the war against Isis while facing weekly protests demanding the removal of the government.
On Monday the ministerial council for national security held an emergency meeting to “examine the repercussions of the attack” on Iraqi forces.
“The Iraqi government condemns this act and considers it a violation of the sovereignty of Iraq and a grave violation of the rules of action of the coalition forces, including the American forces, to carry out operations without the approval of the Iraqi government,” the council said in a statement issued by the office of the Iraqi prime minister.
“This operation targeted Iraqi forces holding a significant front on the border against the remnants of Isis. This endangers the security and sovereignty of Iraq, and also threatens the security of all without exception.”
The council criticised the US as having made the decision based on Washington’s own political priorities rather than those of the people of Iraq.
“Iraq has repeatedly stressed its refusal to be a battleground or a party to any regional or international conflict, and has made strenuous efforts to prevent frictions and reduce clashes in a country and region that has lived for decades for an atmosphere of conflict, interference, occupation and wars,” the council added.
“This sinful attack violates the goals and principles for which the international coalition is formed, which pushes Iraq to review the relationship and the security and political and legal work contexts in a manner that preserves the sovereignty and security of the country, protecting the lives of its children and promoting common interests.” (Source: Independent UK)