Zebari: Iraq would never allow aggression on Iran

Iraq's Foreign Minister Hoshyar Zebari said while visiting Iraq yesterday that Baghdad will never take part in any military aggression on Iran.

Responding to a question on whether Iraq would allow the US to use its soil to materialize threats on Iran, Zebari said that Baghdad had repeatedly declared that it would never allow its territory to become a launching pad for any military action or be used to materialize threats against Iran. "Iraq's security and stability is intertwined with the security and stability of Iran," he said.

He said that Baghdad's main priority was restoration of peace and stability in Iraq and favored promotion of bilateral ties and cooperation with Tehran.

Zebari earlier today held a joint press conference with his visiting Iranian counterpart Manouchehr Mottaki, who arrived in Baghdad yesterday for a two-day visit. Zebari said his country believes peaceful nuclear technology is Iran's indisputable right.

He further said that any provocation or moves against Iran that exacerbates the problem and endangers its security would have negative effects on security in the entire region.

"Given the wisdom of Iranian officials and their logical attitude," said the foreign minister, "Iraq is confident that Tehran's nuclear problem will be settled through peaceful ways."