Riyadh: Saudi Arabia has once again emphasised its brotherly relations with Iraq and clarified that the aim of the recent airstrikes was not to target the Iraqi state or people but only to limit the military capabilities of armed militia groups that the kingdom considers a threat to its national security.
According to Arab media, a Saudi official said in his statement that the operations were limited to specific military targets. According to them, only those places where the militia groups had hideouts, weapons depots or other military installations were targeted, while civilians and state institutions were not targeted.
Saudi officials say that these groups have been accused of planning or attempting attacks against important civilian and economic installations in the kingdom, especially oil infrastructure, in the past. According to them, the aim of the recent measures was to reduce potential threats in the future and ensure the security of Saudi territory.
The statement said that Saudi Arabia preferred restraint and diplomatic means for several months, but due to persistent security concerns, defensive measures were deemed necessary. According to the Saudi official, the activities of some armed groups are not only negatively affecting Iraq’s internal stability but also its relations with Arab and Islamic countries.
According to the Saudi position, some militia groups have been using Iraq’s territory and resources for operations against neighbouring countries, which poses challenges to regional security and stability. In this context, the kingdom has taken limited operations, keeping in mind the protection of its national security.
The Saudi official concluded his statement by reaffirming the Kingdom’s commitment to Iraq’s sovereignty, stability, and positive and mutually respectful relations with its people. He said that Saudi Arabia will continue to support peace, diplomatic solutions, and responsible cooperation in the region and considers joint efforts important for regional stability.
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