Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi has pledged to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman that his country will not permit its territory to be used for attacks against Saudi Arabia or other regional nations. The assurance came during al-Zaidi's first official visit to Riyadh since assuming office in May 2026. According to a statement from al-Zaidi’s office, Iraq is committed to upholding the principles of good neighborliness and respecting the sovereignty of both itself and its neighboring countries.
The visit follows a drone attack on Saudi Arabia’s East-West oil pipeline last month, which originated from Iraqi territory. The strike, part of the Houthis’ offensive in Yemen, temporarily halted operations on the pipeline, a key alternative to the Strait of Hormuz. With a maximum capacity of seven million barrels per day, the pipeline has since resumed operations. Saudi officials claimed the attack launched from Iraq, though no group has claimed responsibility.
Iraq’s investigation confirmed the attack originated from its soil, highlighting the presence of multiple Iran-backed armed groups within its borders. The incident underscores the delicate balance Iraq must maintain between its regional allies and internal security challenges.