The Move Follows U.s.-saudi Airstrikes on Iraqi Targets and Warnings From Jordan and Syria About Iran-backed Militias Operating Inside Iraq

Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi chaired an emergency security meeting on Saturday, ordering the creation of a joint committee to prevent any attacks launched from Iraqi territory against neighboring states. The move follows U.S.-Saudi airstrikes on Iraqi targets and warnings from Jordan and Syria about Iran-backed militias operating inside Iraq. Al-Zaidi, who also serves as commander-in-chief of the armed forces, stressed the need to deter threats and uphold good neighborly relations, according to a statement from his office.

He directed security forces to bolster stability and protect sovereignty, while reaffirming Iraq's commitment to international law. The committee's formation comes amid heightened regional tensions after the U.S. and Saudi Arabia struck several Iraqi provinces in retaliation for drone and missile attacks on oil infrastructure and military sites. Jordan and Syria had earlier cautioned Baghdad that cross-border threats from Iranian-backed groups would not be tolerated.