Iraqi Foreign Minister Warns of Regional Instability, Stresses Baghdad’s Desire to Avoid Conflict
According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein provided insights into pressing regional dynamics and domestic political hurdles while attending the Munich Security Conference, in an interview with Rudaw network.
Minister Hussein expressed significant concern over the potential resurgence of the terrorist group ISIS, confirming that the transfer of ISIS prisoners from SDF-controlled facilities in Syria to Iraqi custody stems from fears of their escape and the subsequent security threat to Iraq.
Providing specific figures, the Foreign Minister detailed that 5,714 ISIS detainees have so far been moved to Iraq, comprising 470 Iraqi nationals and the remainder being foreign citizens. He underscored the ongoing, yet protracted and difficult, efforts aimed at securing the repatriation of ISIS-affiliated citizens by their respective nations.
Addressing internal Kurdish politics, Hussein referenced the February 11 meeting between Masoud Barzani and Bafel Talabani. He clarified that the issue of the Iraqi Presidency was not the focus of that specific discussion and confirmed that the two major Kurdish factions have yet to reach an agreement on a joint candidate. Hussein voiced optimism that future dialogue between the Kurdistan Democratic Party and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan would lead to a consensus, noting that Kurdish unity is crucial for strengthening their position in Baghdad.
The central message from Iraq at the Munich conference, according to the Foreign Minister, is Baghdad’s resolute stance toward stability amid the region’s precarious environment. He explicitly stated his hope that Iraq would not be drawn into any regional war, highlighting the inherent dangers in the current climate, which he framed in relation to Iraq’s neighbors, specifically naming Syria and Iran.
Regarding recent comments attributed to US President Donald Trump concerning Nouri al-Maliki’s potential premiership bid, Fuad Hussein indicated a lack of formal notification regarding any shift in the US position, confirming that communication channels with Washington remain active. He linked the resolution of the premiership challenge to settling the Presidency issue, explaining that either the Patriotic Union and the Democratic Party will agree on a nominee, or Parliament will ultimately decide. The selection of the President is deemed essential for government formation; without it, the designated Prime Minister cannot be officially appointed, thus stalling the formation of a new government.
Hussein firmly refuted claims of any existing agreement between the Kurdistan Democratic Party and the Patriotic Union on a presidential candidate. He pointed out that the majority of Iraqi parliamentary members are Shia, adding that convening Parliament to elect a President requires the attendance of at least 220 representatives. He attributed the current impasse to the Shia bloc, suggesting the resolution of the Nouri al-Maliki situation, particularly in light of Trump’s tweet, rests with them. The elected President has a 15-day window to task the Prime Minister-designate.
In concluding remarks, Fuad Hussein confirmed his own readiness to assume the role of President of Iraq, expressing his hope that Parliament would ultimately select a capable individual for the high office.
