Iraq's Foreign Ministry issued a forceful rebuke this weekend against controversial statements by U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee, who recently claimed Israel holds a 'biblical right' to control Middle Eastern territories. The diplomatic clash comes amid heightened regional tensions in February 2026.
In an official statement released Saturday evening, Iraqi officials described Huckabee's remarks – made during a Friday podcast interview – as a 'serious transgression' undermining national sovereignty. The ministry emphasized that such positions violate fundamental principles of the UN Charter and international law, warning they could destabilize regional security frameworks.
'These irresponsible statements represent an infringement upon the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of states,' the ministry declared, reaffirming Baghdad's commitment to multilateral diplomacy. The condemnation follows Huckabee's assertion that 'it would be fine if they [Israel] took it all,' referring to potential territorial expansion across the region.
Analysts suggest the diplomatic row highlights growing concerns among Middle Eastern nations about external political rhetoric influencing regional power dynamics. The Iraqi government's swift response underscores its current foreign policy priorities in maintaining stable cross-border relations during this critical period.
