Iraq rejects Netanyahu’s threats following a controversial address delivered by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the United Nations. Speaking on Friday, Netanyahu claimed Israel had eliminated several enemies across the region. He also warned Iraqi militias that their leaders would be next if they moved against Israel.
Netanyahu’s remarks quickly outraged officials and citizens across Iraq. Speaking at a press conference in New York, Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein strongly condemned the statements. Hussein declared, “Netanyahu’s statements are unacceptable. An attack on any Iraqi is an attack on Iraq.”
During his speech, Netanyahu held up a map labeled “The Curse,” which pointed to Syria, Iraq, and Iran. He listed what he described as successful Israeli operations against regional adversaries. These included the elimination of Houthi leaders in Yemen, Yahya Sinwar in Gaza, and top commanders in Iran.
He specifically added, “Those militias in Iraq are still deterred. Their leaders, if they attack Israel, will also be gone.” Iraqi officials and citizens viewed his comment as a direct threat to the country’s sovereignty.
Some Iraqi militias belong to the national armed forces but keep strong ties with Iran.In recent years, Tehran has used these groups to expand its influence and target foreign interests. For example, certain militias launched drone attacks against Israel at the start of the war with Hamas.
Meanwhile, the United States has already sanctioned multiple Iran-linked Iraqi militias. It has also taken steps to reduce Iran’s leverage over Baghdad. One such move included ending a sanctions waiver that had allowed Iraq to purchase electricity from Iran for years.
Iraq rejects Netanyahu’s threats not only because of national pride but also due to escalating regional tensions. Iraqi officials argue that such public threats endanger diplomatic relations and regional peace efforts.
Moreover, Iraq views Netanyahu’s speech as an attempt to provoke conflict during a highly sensitive period in the Middle East. The inclusion of Iraq on a hostile map, shown to the world during a UN speech, only intensified concerns.
Additionally, Baghdad has called on the international community to denounce incitement and threats against sovereign nations. Officials insist that dialogue, not escalation, is the only viable path forward.
Iraq rejects Netanyahu’s threats as it continues to navigate complex regional alliances and growing security concerns. As diplomatic fallout continues, the Iraqi government is urging calm while defending its national interests on the global stage.
