Iraq’s FM says external parties using Iraqi soil to attack neighbours

What the report says

Iraq says it is investigating attacks launched from its territory against Gulf states, after Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein told Al Jazeera that external parties have been using Iraqi soil to target neighbouring countries. The remarks were published on 7 November 2026 and come amid renewed concerns in the region about cross-border strikes and the role of armed groups operating in Iraq.

Hussein said Baghdad is trying to resolve disputes with Saudi Arabia through dialogue, rather than confrontation. He also said Iraq is negotiating with Iran-aligned factions inside the country to bring their weapons under state control, and that officials are also in contact with Tehran about the issue. The minister said Washington had requested the closure of most border crossings with Iran, while adding that Iraq wants friendly ties with Tehran but rejects outside interference in its internal affairs.

According to the interview, Saudi Arabia has accused Iran-aligned groups in Iraq of attacking its oil facilities. Hussein pointed to a September acknowledgment from Baghdad that drone attacks on Saudi Arabia’s East-West pipeline originated from Iraqi territory. He also said Iraq had lost about $60bn from suspended oil exports through the Strait of Hormuz, though shipments have since resumed after understandings with Washington and Tehran.

Separately, Hussein said Iraq, Syria, Jordan and Turkiye have formed a committee to address ISIL’s presence in Syria. The full interview was scheduled to air later on Al Jazeera.