# Iraq Investigates External Attacks Launched From Its Territory

Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein confirms investigations into cross-border strikes targeting neighboring Gulf states.

- **Source:** [Al Jazeera English – All News](https://www.aljazeera.com)
- **Published:** 2026-11-07
- **Topic:** [world](https://brifing.si/c/world)
- **Original article:** <https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/11/7/iraqs-fm-says-external-parties-using-iraqi-soil-to-attack-neighbours?traffic_source=rss>
- **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/35214b7d-5903-4124-adec-58acfba8ed74

## Territorial Security Concerns

Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein confirmed that external parties are utilizing Iraqi soil to launch military attacks against neighboring countries. Baghdad is currently conducting formal investigations into these incidents. This development highlights the ongoing struggle of the Iraqi government to maintain sovereignty over its borders and prevent unauthorized cross-border military activities.

## Gulf State Tensions

Baghdad is actively investigating specific attacks launched from its territory against various Gulf states. Saudi Arabia has previously accused Iran-aligned factions operating within Iraq of targeting its critical oil infrastructure. In September, the Iraqi government officially confirmed that drone strikes on the kingdom’s East-West pipeline originated from within its own borders.

## State Control Negotiations

Minister Hussein stated that the government is currently negotiating with Iran-aligned armed factions to bring their weapons under state control. He emphasized that this sensitive process must be pursued through diplomatic dialogue rather than military force. The government is also maintaining direct contact with Tehran regarding the status of these armed groups.

## Border Management Pressures

The United States government has formally requested that Iraq close all but two of its border crossings with Iran. While Iraq seeks to maintain a friendly alliance with Tehran, the government has explicitly rejected any foreign interference in its internal affairs. These border management decisions remain a critical point of ongoing diplomatic discussions.

## Economic Impact Analysis

Iraq has suffered significant financial losses totaling approximately $60 billion due to the suspension of oil exports through the Strait of Hormuz. Shipments have recently resumed following specific understandings reached between Baghdad, Washington, and Tehran. This economic recovery remains fragile and highly dependent on the stability of regional security agreements and diplomatic relations.

## Regional Counter-Terrorism Efforts

Beyond border security, Iraq is collaborating with regional partners to combat the presence of ISIL. A joint committee comprising representatives from Iraq, Syria, Jordan, and Turkiye has been formed to address the group's activities in Syria. This multilateral coordination aims to stabilize the border regions and prevent the resurgence of militant threats.

## Diplomatic Strategy Challenges

The Iraqi government is attempting to resolve complex disagreements with Saudi Arabia through sustained dialogue. By balancing relationships with both Washington and Tehran, Baghdad seeks to mitigate the risks posed by non-state actors. The success of this strategy depends on the government's ability to enforce state authority over diverse armed factions.

## Future Security Outlook

The situation remains fluid as Iraq navigates the dual pressures of regional proxy conflicts and domestic security requirements. The government's commitment to dialogue suggests a preference for de-escalation over direct confrontation. Observers should monitor the progress of the state-led disarmament negotiations and the effectiveness of the new regional counter-terrorism committee.

## Sources covering this story

- https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/11/7/iraqs-fm-says-external-parties-using-iraqi-soil-to-attack-neighbours?traffic_source=rss — 

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_Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._
