Baghdad:<Text>

Iraq stated on Thursday that it is not a participant in the ongoing regional conflict and is actively working to prevent its territory from becoming embroiled in any escalation, following a security warning from the US Embassy in Baghdad.

According to Anadolu Agency, the Iraqi Foreign Ministry emphasized its commitment to keeping the nation outside the scope of the conflict, despite the significant security, economic, and political impacts it faces. The ministry expressed concern over potential unilateral actions by certain parties or individuals that could exploit official positions for activities misrepresenting the government's stance. It reiterated that such actions are unlawful and do not reflect the official policy of Iraq or its institutions.

The statement from the ministry highlighted that attributing such individual actions to the state is unjustified. It underscored the government's firm rejection of any activities that contradict its official position, stressing that Iraq has taken clear and public stances against such behavior.

Iraq also pointed out the complexities added by a perceived decline in adherence to international law and humanitarian standards governing armed conflicts. This situation has turned the region into an open-ended war with expanding repercussions, affecting even those countries not directly involved. The government acknowledged the additional challenges imposed on Iraq in its efforts to contain the conflict's spillover and prevent it from spreading into Iraqi territory.

Despite operating under a caretaker status, the government assured it is exerting maximum efforts to prevent escalation, enhance security measures, and protect diplomatic missions, foreign interests, and civilians. Measures are also being taken to ensure Iraqi territory is not used as a launchpad for any hostile acts.

The US Embassy in Baghdad had earlier warned of potential attacks by Iran-aligne d militia groups in central Baghdad within 24 to 48 hours. The embassy cautioned that US citizens, diplomatic facilities, infrastructure, and locations associated with the United States could be targeted. It urged US citizens to leave Iraq immediately and reiterated a Level 4 'Do Not Travel' advisory, highlighting the significant risk faced by Americans remaining in the country.