Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein, Continues Intensive Diplomatic Efforts to Prevent Escalation of War and Warns of Grave Regional and International Security Consequences

Amid rising tensions in the region, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mr. Fuad Hussein, continues to actively engage in intensive diplomatic efforts aimed at containing the crisis and preventing the expansion of the ongoing war, through recent communications with a number of regional and international counterparts, he has reaffirmed Iraq’s commitment to de-escalation, rejection of violations of its sovereignty, and cautioned against the severe repercussions that continued military escalation could pose to international peace and security.

In this context, on Monday, June 16, 2025, Minister Hussein held a series of important phone calls with his Italian counterpart Mr. Antonio Tajani, British Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs Mr. David Lammy, and the Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Mr. Abbas Araghchi. The discussions focused on the serious developments unfolding in the region, particularly in light of the recent Israeli attacks. During the call, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Israel is attempting to expand the conflict into the Gulf region, emphasizing that the current operations are defensive in nature and not intended to provoke broader confrontations.

On his part, Minister Hussein stressed Iraq’s categorical rejection of any violations of its airspace by the Israeli entity, describing such actions as blatant breaches of Iraqi sovereignty and international law. As well he expressed deep concern that continued escalation may ignite an uncontrollable regional conflict.

In a separate conversation with Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, the two sides discussed the evolving regional crisis. Minister Tajani underscored the need to resume negotiations and avoid any further escalation, warning that a broader war would carry serious risks for the global economy, affirming Italy’s commitment to pursuing diplomatic pressure to halt military actions.

Minister Hussein also spoke with UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, a special importance was attached on ways to de-escalate tensions. Foreign Secretary Lammy stressed the importance of neutralizing Iraq from the conflict arena and highlighted ongoing efforts in coordination with European partners and the United States to contain the situation.

Minister Hussein reiterated that the continuation of the war could trigger a global economic crisis—particularly if the conflict spreads to the Strait of Hormuz, which would disrupt energy supplies and drive global inflation. He stressed the urgent need to return to the negotiating table and resolve disputes through peaceful means.

Additionally, the Minister continues to adopt a balanced approach that upholds Iraqi sovereignty while actively contributing to efforts to prevent a broader regional war. In all his communications, he has called for an immediate ceasefire and emphasized diplomacy as the only viable means for solution.

Furthermore, the Minister warned that repeated Israeli violations of Iraqi airspace threaten to drag Iraq into a conflict it seeks to avoid, calling on the international community to take urgent steps to halt such violations.

Separately, in line with the Foreign Ministry responsibilities, Minister Hussein directed Iraqi embassies and consulates to intensify coordination with relevant national authorities, including the Civil Aviation Authority and the Ministry of Transport, to facilitate the return of Iraqi citizens stranded in airports and neighboring countries. Intensive follow-ups led to an agreement with Turkish authorities to grant entry visas to Iraqi nationals currently stuck, as part of ongoing efforts to ease the difficulties faced by Iraqis abroad and reaffirm the Ministry’s commitment to their protection and support under all circumstances.

Through these broad diplomatic moves led by Minister Fuad Hussein, the Ministry remains steadfast in its efforts to prevent regional explosion by engaging in high-level consultations and issuing clear warnings that the further spread of war will only result in greater chaos and economic devastation on a global scale. Iraq remains committed to safeguarding its national interests and to steering the region away from further violence.