Iraq Requests Iran to Avoid Striking US Bases Amid Regional Tensions

Amid escalating regional tensions following Israeli strikes on Iranian military and nuclear targets, the Iraqi government has formally requested Iran to refrain from targeting U.S. military assets on Iraqi soil. This diplomatic appeal aims to preserve Iraq's neutrality and prevent its territory from becoming a battleground between Iran and the United States, which maintains approximately 2,500 troops in Iraq as part of anti-terrorism coalition efforts. Iraqi officials report that Iran has responded with understanding and positive signals regarding this request. Concurrently, Iraq has urged the United States to prevent Israeli aircraft from violating Iraqi airspace in attacks against Iran, emphasizing adherence to bilateral agreements and international law. The situation reflects Iraq's delicate balancing act between its close ties with Tehran and strategic partnership with Washington, while regional actors including Gulf states express concern about the potential for wider conflict. The U.S. has also taken precautionary measures, such as reducing personnel at its Baghdad embassy, in response to the heightened security risks.