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Iraqi FM Fuad Hussein at MEPS24: "Iraq seeks peace amid regional tensions"

"The Iraqi government does not want war, and we are not part of this war," Hussein declared, reiterating Iraq's firm stance against becoming entangled in escalating tensions across the Middle East.

Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein. (Photo: Kurdistan24)
Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein. (Photo: Kurdistan24)
Kurdistan Iraqi FM Fuad Hussein MEPS24 Regional Challenges

Nov. 22, 2024

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein emphasized Iraq’s commitment to peace and stability during a special conversation at the Middle East Peaceand Security Forum 2024 (MEPS24) in Duhok.

Addressing pressing regional challenges, he also shed light on Iraq's diplomatic efforts, security strategies, and economic concerns.

Iraq’s Position on War and Regional Conflicts

"The Iraqi government does not want war, and we are not part of this war," Hussein declared, reiterating Iraq's firm stance against becoming entangled in escalating tensions across the Middle East.

Despite these efforts, he acknowledged the tangible risks to Iraq, emphasizing the need for vigilance.

"There is a tangible threat to Iraq, and the country must not be dragged into war," he stressed, highlighting Iraq’s delicate position amid mounting external pressures.

Domestic and Cross-Border Political Challenges

Hussein addressed Iraq's complex political environment, pointing to significant internal conflicts with cross-border implications.

“There are major political conflicts within the country that extend beyond the borders,” he noted, underlining the challenges Iraq faces in maintaining internal unity while managing regional dynamics.

Withdrawal of US Forces and Coalition Presence

Providing updates on Iraq's security arrangements, Hussein revealed progress in discussions regarding the presence of foreign military forces.
"We have reached mutual understandings about the withdrawal of US forces from some military bases in 2025," he stated.

However, he underscored the importance of coalition forces in combating ISIS, clarifying that their presence in Iraq was based on Baghdad's invitation.
"The presence of coalition forces in Iraq is related to the war on ISIS, and their presence was at the invitation of the Iraqi side," Hussein explained.

Iraq’s Economic Realities

Turning to economic challenges, Hussein identified Iraq’s reliance on oil as a critical concern.

"The Iraqi economy depends mainly on oil, and this is a real issue in Iraq," he said, pointing to the need for economic diversification to achieve stability and growth.

Iraq’s Diplomatic Role

Amid these challenges, Hussein highlighted Iraq's achievements in regional diplomacy, particularly its role in fostering reconciliation between Saudi Arabia and Iran.

"Iraq played an important role in bringing together the Saudi and Iranian sides," he remarked, showcasing Baghdad's efforts to mediate and promote dialogue in the region.

Commitment to Peace and Prosperity

Fuad Hussein's remarks at MEPS24 underscore Iraq's proactive approach to ensuring peace, fostering regional cooperation, and addressing domestic issues.

His call for economic reform and enhanced governance, combined with Iraq's efforts to insulate itself from external conflicts, reflects the government's focus on securing a stable future.