Al-Maliki Affirms Legal Accountability for Those Involved in Attacks Against Saudi Arabia

Nouri al-Maliki, head of the State of Law Coalition, affirmed on Wednesday that any party proven to be involved in attacks targeting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will be subject to legal accountability. His statement came during his reception of the United Kingdom's Ambassador to Iraq, Irfan Siddiq, at his office in Baghdad. The two officials discussed the latest political and security developments in Iraq and the region, as well as ways to strengthen bilateral relations in service of mutual interests. During the meeting, al-Maliki expressed Iraq's keenness to build balanced and friendly relations with all nations, stressing Baghdad's respect for their sovereignty and security. He reiterated Iraq's rejection of any practices that could compromise the security of neighboring countries or harm Iraq's regional and international ties. Regarding recent security developments, al-Maliki noted the ongoing work of the investigative committee formed by Prime Minister and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Ali Faleh al-Zaidi, to probe the attack that targeted Saudi Arabia. He clarified that the government has already begun holding negligent security leaders and officials accountable, asserting that any party proven to be involved in the attacks will face legal action, regardless of their identity. The head of the State of Law Coalition emphasized the necessity of addressing security issues within the framework of the state and the law, to preserve the state's prestige and prevent a slide into confrontation or internal conflict between the government and factions. He underscored that Iraq's internal stability represents a paramount national priority that cannot be compromised. He also highlighted a collective will and determination to conclude this matter and ensure that weapons are exclusively under state control, indicating that achieving this goal requires dialogue, understandings, and guarantees to protect Iraq's security and stability. Al-Maliki drew attention to the significant responsiveness from faction leaders to the committee established by the Coordination Framework, stressing the importance of soon reaching a comprehensive and balanced vision to address this file. He considered that the complete resolution of these issues would pave the way for continued communication and dialogue with various parties, including friendly nations, to reach understandings that safeguard Iraq's sovereignty and national interests, and enhance its security and stability. For his part, the British Ambassador affirmed his country's commitment to developing relations with Iraq and supporting its security and stability, while both sides stressed the importance of continued dialogue and coordination on issues of mutual concern.