Iraq Urges US to Block Israeli Airspace Violations Amid Iran Tensions

Iraq has formally called on the United States to prevent Israeli aircraft from using Iraqi airspace to conduct military operations against Iran, citing violations of sovereignty and international agreements. The statement comes amid rising regional tensions following Israeli airstrikes on Iranian targets.

On Saturday, Iraqi military spokesperson Sabah al-Numan emphasized Baghdad's concerns over the repeated use of Iraqi airspace by Israeli forces, referring to them as the "Zionist entity." He urged the U.S. to fulfill its obligations under existing bilateral security agreements, stressing the importance of respecting Iraqi sovereignty and international law.

“The Iraqi government urges the United States to uphold its responsibilities under the agreements signed between the two countries and prevent aircraft belonging to the Zionist entity from once again violating Iraqi airspace,” Numan said.

The appeal reflects Iraq’s growing unease about being drawn into the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. Israel has ramped up strikes against Iranian military and nuclear infrastructure in recent weeks, prompting fears of a broader regional war. While Washington remains a close ally of both Iraq and Israel, the Iraqi government insists that any unauthorized use of its airspace compromises national security and risks regional stability.

Observers note that Iraq’s latest move could increase diplomatic pressure on the U.S. to balance its strategic alliances while managing regional fallout. It also highlights Baghdad’s intent to assert greater control over its airspace following decades of external military operations.

The request aligns with Iraq’s broader push to maintain neutrality in regional conflicts and safeguard its territorial integrity. As geopolitical tensions in the Middle East escalate, Iraq’s stance may test the limits of U.S. commitments and further complicate an already volatile situation.