Closing Iraqi embassies worldwide

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In summary, there is a request from the US government to other countries to force closure of Iraqi embassies and consulates. However, countries like France, Germany, and the Netherlands have denied this request. This request seems premature as the war in Iraq is not yet won. If Saddam Hussein is overthrown, the new government will be responsible for appointing new ambassadors and diplomatic staff. This is an unusual situation, but it is also a unique circumstance with the removal of one nation's government by another. The US has cited concerns about potential terrorist acts by Iraqi diplomatic personnel, but it is unlikely anyone would support Saddam at this time. Additionally, closing the embassies could pave the way for a new Iraqi government to appoint new ambassadors.
  • #1
Monique
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Is that a right, or usual thing to do?

I heard that Bush is asking countries to force closure of Iraqi Embassies and Consulates. France, Germany and the Netherlands have denied Bush's request (surprising since dutch government DID give political support to the US).
 
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  • #2
It seems premature because the "war" has not been won yet. But assuming that Saddam Hussein will be overthrown, it means that he and his cronies no longer run the country and therefore the diplomats in Iraqi embassies around the world no longer represent the new Iraq. The new government, or whatever system will be in place, will be the one to appoint new ambassadors and diplomatic staff.
 
  • #3
Well , This Is The First Time I Hear Of Such Request , But As Everyone Was Sure Of , The Jordanian Government Refused To Close The Iraqi Embassy Here .
 
  • #4
The US certainly has the right to ask, and other nations have the right to deny the request.

It is unusual, but so is the removal of one nation's government by another. I think there are two reasons for the request.

The US has stated that it believes that many Iraqi diplomatic personnel are intelligence officers who might engage in terrorist acts against the US consulates and embassies. Saddam Hussein has called upon all Muslims to attack the US wherever they can, but I doubt these diplomatic workers will do so. I don't think anyone is anxious to go out on a limb for Saddam right now.

The other reason would be to pave the way of regime change. A new Iraqi government will appoint new ambassadors. In the interim, the old ambassadors could cause trouble.

Njorl
 

1. Why is there a proposal to close Iraqi embassies worldwide?

The proposal to close Iraqi embassies worldwide is due to a decision made by the Iraqi government to reduce the number of embassies and diplomatic missions around the world in order to cut costs and streamline operations.

2. How many Iraqi embassies are currently open worldwide?

As of 2021, there are currently 80 Iraqi embassies and diplomatic missions operating worldwide.

3. Will this affect the services provided by Iraqi embassies?

It is likely that the closure of embassies will result in a reduction of services provided. However, essential services such as consular assistance will still be available through other means, such as neighboring embassies or online services.

4. What is the timeline for closing Iraqi embassies worldwide?

The timeline for closing Iraqi embassies worldwide has not been officially announced. However, it is expected that the closures will be gradual and may take several years to fully implement.

5. How will this decision affect Iraqi citizens living abroad?

This decision may have some impact on Iraqi citizens living abroad, as they may have to travel further to access consular services or seek assistance from neighboring embassies. However, online services and other means of assistance will still be available to them.

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