Iraq is at the focus of contentious allegations and rebuttals over potential Israeli military action amid escalating regional tensions. Many people are curious about what’s actually happening behind the scenes as certain authorities are raising concerns while others are downplaying the threat.
Iraq’s National Security Advisor, Qassem Al-Araji, wasn’t holding back when he dismissed reports that Israel had sent a warning through the Azerbaijani ambassador. On Monday, he took to X (formerly Twitter), calling the claims “completely false.” Al-Araji urged media outlets to stick to the facts, cautioning against spreading unverified information during such a sensitive time.
He stressed that “no such communication has taken place,” highlighting the importance of truthful reporting as the area manages elevated tensions. However, the tale doesn’t stop there. A different, far more alarming image is being painted by other Iraqi authorities.
There are “multiple channels” warning
In a recent broadcast interview, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani’s political advisor Fadi Al-Shammari revealed a shocking revelation. He said that several foreign sources had warned Iraq of a possible Israeli assault. These warnings, he said, are tied to a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) complaint from Israel, accusing Iran-aligned factions in Iraq of launching attacks on Israeli targets.
Al-Shammari believes Israel is trying to use the UNSC complaint as leverage to isolate Iraq on the global stage. He made it clear, however, that Baghdad isn’t folding under pressure. “We’ve responded diplomatically to these accusations,” he said, “but we won’t allow anyone to compromise our sovereignty.”
Meanwhile, Kurdish MP Majid Shingali stirred the pot even further, warning in local media that Israel could launch airstrikes on Iraqi soil within days. He claimed these threats were relayed through international intermediaries, including the Azerbaijani ambassador and the U.S.
“This is a dire situation,” Shingali warned. “Israel has made it clear they’re ready to act if Iraq doesn’t crack down on the armed groups they’re accusing of targeting them.”
The Iraqi government isn’t sitting idle. They’ve filed formal complaints with major international organizations like the UN Security Council, the Arab League, and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, urging these bodies to rein in what Baghdad sees as escalating Israeli aggression.
“We’re treating these threats very seriously,” said Amer Al-Fayez, a member of Iraq’s Foreign Relations Committee. “Israel’s complaint at the Security Council feels like a precursor to military action.”
To prepare for the worst, Iraq has ramped up security. Troops have been deployed along key borders, air defenses have been strengthened, and intelligence agencies are on high alert. To counter the threats, Prime Minister Al-Sudani even convened an emergency session of the National Security Council.
Iraqi military spokesman Major General Yahya Rasool called Israel’s charges unfounded. However, he said, “Iraq alone decides matters of war and peace,” acknowledging the need for caution.
In the Crossfire
This dangerous scenario is further compounded by the wider regional environment. Israeli officials have accused Iran-backed militias of using Iraqi territory to launch attacks, while Iraq has condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza and beyond. Analysts say Israel’s threats against Iraq could be part of a larger strategy to target pro-Iranian forces across the region.
Meanwhile, Iraq is not helping the situation with its internal divides. Its government relies too heavily on Iran-aligned factions, creating obstacles in showing a united front and leaving Baghdad at the mercy of others.
“This is a fragile moment for Iraq,” said Ihsan Al-Shammari, a political analyst. “They are receiving external threats and at the same time they have internal weakness. To pass through this they need scrupulous diplomacy and actual unity.
For now, Baghdad wants to propagandize against what it sees as undue aggression, while appealing for international backing. Yet, the possibility of conflict spreading across the Middle East does not seem too stark. As framed by one Iraqi official: “We want peace, but we will not just sit by and let someone threaten our sovereignty. How Iraq addresses such challenges may have wide ramifications, not only for itself but for overall regional stability as well. Until then, the whole world is looking at Baghdad.
