Iraq’s foreign minister, Fuad Hussein, met with his Iranian counterpart, Ali Bagheri, in Baghdad. They discussed the escalating conflict in southern Lebanon between militants and Israeli forces, triggered by a Hamas attack on October 7. There are growing concerns about the conflict spreading across the region.
Hussein emphasized the potential impact on the entire region if southern Lebanon is attacked, calling for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza. Bagheri echoed this sentiment and called for an end to “war crimes” and “genocide” in Gaza. Both ministers expressed opposition to a regional escalation.
Despite fears of a wider war, experts believe the risk is limited. Hezbollah, an ally of Iran, launched rockets at northern Israel in retaliation for the killing of a military commander. The Israeli military reported over 150 projectiles fired from Lebanon, but there were no casualties. Israel responded with strikes against targets in southern Lebanon. Efforts are being made to prevent further escalation and preserve regional stability.
