Iraqi Foreign Ministry Regrets Attacks that Targeted Saudi Arabia

The Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs building. (Ministry website)
The Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs building. (Ministry website)
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Iraqi Foreign Ministry Regrets Attacks that Targeted Saudi Arabia

The Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs building. (Ministry website)
The Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs building. (Ministry website)

The Iraqi Foreign Ministry expressed on Monday its "grave concern" over drone attacks that targeted Saudi Arabia on Sunday, stressing its categorical rejection of any assault against the Kingdom.

Late Sunday, Saudi Arabia said it had intercepted and destroyed three drones that entered from Iraqi airspace, adding that it "reserves the right to respond at the appropriate time and place."

In a statement, the Iraqi ministry underscored the "depth of the brotherly and historic bonds that bind Iraq and Saudi Arabia."

It also underlined Baghdad’s constant keenness on bolstering bilateral cooperation in various fields.

Authorities have opened an investigation "to determine the circumstances surrounding" Sunday’s incident, it added.

The country's air defense systems had not detected any drones launched from its territory toward Saudi Arabia, it went on to say.

The ministry urged Riyadh "to cooperate and share relevant information to help ensure accurate information that strengthen security and stability in both brotherly countries."

It stressed "Iraq’s firm position in respecting the security, safety and sovereignty of fraternal countries, rejecting any acts that undermine their stability, threaten their national security and harm bilateral relations."

No Iraqi group has claimed responsibility for the drones.

After the United States and Israel attacked Iran on February 28, and before a ceasefire was announced, Tehran-backed Iraqi groups intervened in support of Iran and struck US facilities in Iraq and the wider region, including Gulf countries.

Last month, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Jordan issued a joint statement demanding that Baghdad act immediately to prevent attacks from its territory by Iran-backed armed groups.

Iraq has repeatedly said it does not allow its territory to be used in attacks against other countries.



Saudi Foreign Minister, Jordanian Deputy Prime Minister Discuss Regional Developments

Saudi flag (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Saudi flag (Asharq Al-Awsat)
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Saudi Foreign Minister, Jordanian Deputy Prime Minister Discuss Regional Developments

Saudi flag (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Saudi flag (Asharq Al-Awsat)

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah received a phone call on Monday from Jordanian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Ayman Safadi, SPA reported.

During the call, the two ministers reviewed regional developments and discussed issues of mutual interest.


Muslim World League Welcomes US-Iran Ceasefire Agreement

Muslim World League Welcomes US-Iran Ceasefire Agreement
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Muslim World League Welcomes US-Iran Ceasefire Agreement

Muslim World League Welcomes US-Iran Ceasefire Agreement

The Muslim World League (MWL) welcomed the ceasefire agreement reached between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran.

In a statement issued by its General Secretariat, Secretary-General of the MWL and Chairman of the Organization of Muslim Scholars Sheikh Dr. Mohammed Al-Issa emphasized the importance of continuing negotiations to reach an agreement that promotes security and stability in the region and preserves the interests, sovereignty, and safety of its states and peoples.

He also commended the mediation efforts of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, as well as the efforts of Saudi Arabia and the State of Qatar.


Saudi Arabia, Ireland Agree to Strengthen Air Transport Cooperation

The record of discussions relates to air transport services between Saudi Arabia and Ireland - SPA
The record of discussions relates to air transport services between Saudi Arabia and Ireland - SPA
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Saudi Arabia, Ireland Agree to Strengthen Air Transport Cooperation

The record of discussions relates to air transport services between Saudi Arabia and Ireland - SPA
The record of discussions relates to air transport services between Saudi Arabia and Ireland - SPA

President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al‑Duailej signed a record of discussions on Monday at GACA headquarters in Riyadh with the Irish Aviation Authority, represented by Irish Ambassador Gerry Cunningham.

The record of discussions relates to air transport services between Saudi Arabia and Ireland and aligns with the principles outlined in the Chicago Convention on International Civil Aviation, SPA reported.

It will help establish a regulatory framework for air transport services between the two countries, fostering bilateral cooperation based on mutual benefit, mutual respect, and compliance with the laws, regulations, and procedures in force in both Saudi Arabia and Ireland.