Press Statement

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been monitoring reports circulated by some media outlets and social media platforms regarding a measure taken by U.S. authorities concerning two Iraqi diplomats. In this regard, the Ministry would like to clarify that it is following up on the matter with the relevant U.S. authorities to determine the related reasons and justifications.

The Ministry notes that some media coverage contained inaccurate information in terms of the characterization of the case, the timeframes, and the deadline specified for departure.

In this context, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs clarifies that the measure taken does not amount to “expulsion” in the legal and diplomatic sense; rather, it falls within a decision not to continue the assignment of one of the diplomats on its territory. Moreover, one of the diplomats concerned continues to carry out his duties normally and is scheduled to depart at the end of the current month.

The Ministry affirms that Iraqi–U.S. relations are based on mutual respect and mutual interests and are conducted in accordance with established diplomatic frameworks and norms.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Iraq
14 January 2026