Iraq says its territory will not be used as a base for attacks on any state

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Joint Operations Command said on Sunday that the country will not be used as a base for attacks targeting any state, including its neighbors. The assurance came in a written statement issued after a security meeting held at the Joint Operations Command headquarters. The meeting was attended by Chief of the General Staff Lieutenant General Abdul Amir Yar Allah and Deputy Joint Operations Commander Lieutenant General Kayis al-Muhammadawi, along with the head of the Counter-Terrorism Service, the chief of staff's deputy for operations, heads of security and intelligence agencies, and senior commanders from the defense and interior ministries. Participants reviewed the protection of security gains, control of areas of responsibility, security of vital targets and international borders, and the safeguarding of diplomatic missions. Attendees stressed that Iraq will not serve as a staging ground for strikes against any neighbor or other state, and that in return Iraq's sovereignty, security and stability must be respected. The command also said it would act firmly against any attempts to inflame the situation, undermine internal security or damage Iraq's relations with its neighbors. The statement added that recommendations, orders and instructions related to the discussed tasks and responsibilities were approved at the end of the meeting. No further details were immediately provided.