ERBIL, Kurdistan Region of Iraq - Iraq’s governing coalition on Wednesday emphasized the need to prevent the country from being dragged into the regional conflicts, denying reports that Iraqi territories are used to launch attacks.

The meeting of the State Administration Coalition, attended by Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani and newly-elected parliament Speaker Mahmoud al-Mashhadani, discussed developments in Iraq and the region, cooperation between the executive and legislative authorities, and the upcoming cabinet reshuffle.

“The rumors about using Iraqi territory as a starting point for carrying out attacks were also refuted, considering them flimsy justifications to warrant violations on Iraq's land and sovereignty,” read a statement from the coalition.

The meeting comes amid reports that Israel is preparing to launch a retaliatory attack against Iraq, targeting Iran-backed militias which have claimed hundreds of attacks on Israeli territories and US interests in the region over the war in Gaza.

Iraq’s top religious authority Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani on Monday urged Iraqis to learn from past experiences, prevent foreign interference, enforce the rule of law, and restrict arms to the state. His call was widely accepted by the political parties.

The ruling coalition stressed commitment to Sistani’s message, saying his recommendations “contribute to building a state of institutions” and pave the way for achieving a better future for Iraq.

The statement reaffirmed Iraq’s support for the Palestinian and Lebanese people in the face of the Israeli aggression, while emphasizing the need to prioritize the supreme interests of the country and steer Iraq from “the atmosphere of war.”

Despite voicing strong support for Iran and resistance groups in the region and repeated condemnation of Israel’s actions, Sudani in October said that “the decision of war and peace” was in the hands of the government, warning “anyone who deviates from the will face the state,” likely referring to the armed groups.