In the midst of the escalating Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Iraq has found itself navigating a complex geopolitical landscape. The country's decision to distance itself from Israel's battles with Hezbollah and Iran reflects a strategic move to avoid further destabilization and potential military involvement.
Iraqi officials and leaders of Iranian-backed armed factions have emphasized their focus on providing humanitarian aid and financial support to civilians affected by Israel's war on Lebanon. This stance is driven by the fear that expanding the conflict could lead to the collapse of Iraq's political, economic, and military systems, as well as the fall of its government.
Iraq's Position on the Conflict
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani has been actively engaged in efforts to prevent Iraq from becoming a battleground in the conflict. He has held numerous meetings with political leaders, commanders of armed factions allied with Iran, and top brass of Iraq's security services to explain the reality of the situation facing Iraq and the consequences of any involvement in the ongoing conflict.
Sudani has also met with various Arab and western diplomats, as well as neighboring leaders, including the Egyptian president, Qatar's emir, and the king of Jordan. His aim is to garner support to stop the ongoing Zionist aggression on Lebanon and Gaza, which threatens to expand the conflict throughout the region.
Despite these efforts, there are concerns that Israel may still target Iraq. A senior official from the Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF) noted that Israel's targets in Iraq are known and clear, including the camps of some armed factions and the headquarters of the PMF. The only two figures who are actually targeted are Akram al-Kaabi, the commander of Harakat Hezbollah al-Nujaba, and Abu Hussein al-Muhammadawi, the commander of Kataeb Hezbollah.
Humanitarian Efforts by Iraq
In a gesture of support for Palestinians, Iraq has received dozens of wounded Palestinians from Gaza to provide them with hospital treatment. This is part of the 'Help Gaza' campaign launched by the Iraqi government, which aims to offer medical aid to those injured in Israel's ongoing offensive against Gaza.
The Iraqi Ministry of Health has announced the arrival of 27 wounded Palestinians from Gaza as the first batch to arrive in Iraq. These individuals, along with their companions, were transported by ambulances to Iraqi hospitals for treatment.
Iraq's transportation and treatment of the injured Gazans reflect Baghdad's continued action in support of Palestinians under constant bombardment by Israeli forces. The humanitarian efforts underscore Iraq's commitment to aiding those affected by the conflict.
Public Sentiment in Iraq
Public sentiment in Iraq is divided regarding the conflict. Some Iraqis, like journalist Abdurreza al-Hamid, see resistance against Israel as a humanitarian option and a duty for every Arab, Muslim, and human being. Al-Hamid emphasizes that resistance is necessary due to Israel's policy of mass genocide against Palestinians.
However, many Iraqis also express a desire for peace and stability. Young Iraqi Taha Temimi has suffered greatly due to war and does not want Iraq to enter another conflict. He believes that Iraq should focus on reconstruction efforts and stability rather than engaging in another war.
Writer Halit al-Wadi argues that significant new developments are taking place in the region. He believes that resistance against Israel is necessary and that Iraq should be prepared to fight if necessary. Al-Wadi's stance reflects a broader sentiment among some Iraqis who see the conflict as a struggle for existence.
Despite these differing views, there is a general consensus among Iraqis that they do not want their country to become embroiled in the conflict. The focus remains on maintaining stability and providing humanitarian aid to those affected by the conflict.
In conclusion, Iraq's stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is characterized by a delicate balance between avoiding military involvement and providing humanitarian support. The country's actions reflect its commitment to regional stability and its role as a supporter of Palestinian causes.
