Kurdish terrorists not to be given extra time for disarmament: Iran FM

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
13 Sep 2023 19:33

As per the agreement, Kurdish separatists in Iraq are to be disarmed and relocated by September 19.

Iraqi Foreign Minister Fouad Hussein, left, speaks during a meeting with his Iranian counterpart Hossein Amir-Abdollahian in Tehran, Iran, Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023 (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi)

At a joint press conference held in Tehran on Wednesday, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian touched upon a number of topics with his Iraqi counterpart, Fuad Hussein, with whom he discussed the implementation of the security agreement between Tehran and Baghdad.

As per the agreement, Kurdish separatists in Iraq are to be disarmed and relocated by September 19.

Indicating that he had engaged in significant discussions with FM Hussein regarding the security agreement earlier that Wednesday, the senior Iranian diplomat emphasized Iran's unwavering commitment to safeguarding its national security.

Expressing contentment with the Iraqi side's efforts in disarming terrorist groups, he remarked that the Iraqi foreign minister had shared positive developments in this regard. He added that the subsequent actions in accordance with the security agreement would be implemented in the upcoming days.

"Giving even one hour to the terrorists is detrimental to the security of Iraq, Iran, and the Iraqi Kurdistan region," the top Iranian diplomat said.

On another note, Amir-Abdollahian thanked the Iraqi government and nation for hosting the Arbaeen pilgrims.

He also commended the collaborative efforts of Iraq, Iran, and Saudi Arabia in the criminalization of desecrating holy books and extended sincere gratitude to the senior officials of Iraq, including the Iraqi foreign minister, for their role in this endeavor.

Discussing his negotiations with FM Hussein, Amir-Abdollahian mentioned that they had deliberated on a range of topics, including matters related to the economy, trade, tourism, science and technology, and industry. Additionally, both parties engaged in conversations regarding various regional and international issues.

Regarding the role of high-ranking Iraqi officials in facilitating discussions aimed at lifting US sanctions against Iran, the Iranian foreign minister expressed appreciation, stating, "We are thankful for the efforts of the Iraqi government."

Addressing environmental concerns, Amir-Abdollahian urged swift action to address the challenges of dust storms and the dredging of the Shatt Al Arab waterway.

The Iraqi foreign minister, on his part, emphasized that Iraq's constitution prohibits the use of its territory for launching attacks against other nations.

"Security cooperation between Iraq and Iran is basically based on the constitution," he noted, adding that Baghdad is committed to this roadmap and is trying to reach the final goal.

"The goal is to disarm the terrorist groups on the border between Iran and Iraq. They will be transferred to a number of refugee camps, and this action will take place under the supervision of the United Nations and the High Commissioner for Refugees."

Commending the positive relations between Tehran and Baghdad, the leading Iraqi diplomat advocated for the resolution of any disputes between the two nations exclusively through diplomatic negotiations.

Furthermore, he indicated that his visit to Iran was part of an effort to strengthen bilateral ties and highlighted that discussing the security agreement was one of the primary objectives of his current trip.

He also mentioned that the roadmap for implementing the security agreement is scheduled to be finalized within the next two days.

Additionally, the Iraqi foreign minister extended an appeal to Iran and Turkey, urging them to collaborate with Iraq in addressing environmental challenges and combating drought.