RIYADH, Saudi Arabia: Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Faleh Al-Zaidi has reaffirmed that Baghdad will not allow Iraqi territory to be used to launch attacks against Saudi Arabia or other countries in the region.
Al-Zaidi made the statement during a meeting with Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh on Wednesday, October 14, according to official statements reported by regional media. The talks focused on regional developments, bilateral relations and cooperation to strengthen security and stability.
During the meeting, the Iraqi premier condemned attacks targeting King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, along with other attacks affecting civilian facilities and critical infrastructure. He described such incidents as a threat to regional security and stability.
Al-Zaidi stressed Iraq’s commitment to good-neighbourly relations and respect for the sovereignty of Saudi Arabia and other countries in the region.
Security Cooperation Amid Regional Tensions
The meeting comes as Saudi Arabia faces an escalation in missile and drone attacks attributed to Yemen’s Houthi movement. Recent attacks have raised concerns about the security of airports, energy facilities and other critical infrastructure across the region.
Saudi Arabia and Iraq discussed strengthening bilateral cooperation, particularly in security coordination, as both governments seek to address shared regional challenges.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman reiterated the Kingdom’s commitment to expanding cooperation with Iraq and expressed support for efforts to promote dialogue and regional stability.
Baghdad’s assurance that Iraqi territory will not be used to launch attacks is significant amid concerns over cross-border threats and the activities of armed groups operating in the region.
Iraq has emphasised the importance of protecting its sovereignty while maintaining constructive relations with neighbouring countries. The latest discussions underline the role of diplomatic engagement and security coordination in reducing the risk of further escalation.
Whether these commitments will lead to a measurable reduction in attacks remains to be seen. For now, both sides have publicly stressed cooperation, sovereignty and regional stability as priorities.
Source: Saudi Press Agency and official statements reported by regional news outlets.
