Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani highlighted the urgent need for new ambassadors to fulfill their duties with full commitment. He praised parliament’s approval of the ambassador list and called this step vital for Iraq’s foreign representation. Ambassadors must fulfill their duties became central to his remarks and shaped the government’s message.
Al-Sudani welcomed the vote by parliament and emphasized the cooperation that made this decision possible. No ambassadorial appointments had been finalized since 2009, and this delay harmed Iraq’s diplomacy. Al-Sudani underlined that ambassadors must fulfill their duties by defending Iraq’s interests and supporting Iraqi citizens abroad. To address this, the government worked hard to close the gap in the diplomatic corps.
He explained that the government had worked hard to close the gap in the diplomatic corps. Years of vacancies left many embassies without leadership. Al-Sudani described this development as part of broader administrative reform. He argued that the reform aims to strengthen institutions across the state and ensure that every official works effectively.
The Prime Minister also stated that this decision would enhance the performance of the diplomatic institution. According to him, a strong diplomatic body ensures that Iraq can play an active role in international affairs. He stressed that ambassadors must fulfill their duties under the constitution and laws to secure benefits for the people.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs also welcomed the vote. Officials said that new ambassadors would help Iraq expand its global presence and strengthen international ties. They added that ambassadors would defend national interests while protecting the rights of Iraqis living abroad.
However, the vote did not pass without dispute. Several lawmakers objected to adding the ambassador list to the agenda without prior notice. Videos from the session showed chaos and shouting. Some MPs argued that the vote lacked legality. Despite these objections, the Speaker pressed ahead and confirmed the list.
The controversy grew further after details of the list emerged. Critics pointed out that several nominees had no diplomatic experience. Others condemned the quota system that granted ambassador posts to relatives of political leaders. Names linked to well-known figures such as Mahmoud al-Mashhadani, Hadi al-Amiri, and Mishaan al-Jubouri triggered public anger.
Despite the uproar, the government defended the appointments as necessary. Officials insisted that filling vacant posts was urgent to restore credibility abroad. They argued that only a complete diplomatic network could represent Iraq’s interests in today’s unstable world.
