Diplomatic relations between Iraq and Sweden presently hang on a balance as Iraq reacts, strongly putting forth the condition that another Quran-burning incident could lead to a complete severance of ties.
The fervent reaction of hundreds of protesters who stormed the Swedish embassy in Baghdad, setting it alight, compelled Iraq to issue a warning against the planned Quran burning in Stockholm.
Tobias Billstrom, the Swedish Foreign Minister, expressed relief that embassy staff remained safe amidst the chaos.
However, he raised serious concerns about the perceived negligence of Iraqi authorities in adhering to the Vienna Convention and ensuring the embassy’s protection.
The burning of the Swedish embassy was met with unequivocal condemnation from the Iraqi government, as stated by the office of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani.
The incident was deemed a severe security breach, prompting a resolute commitment to safeguarding all diplomatic missions.
Read also: Koran Stomping: Iraq Ousts Swedish Envoy
However, Baghdad had also ‘informed the Swedish government that any recurrence of the incident involving the burning of the Holy Qur’an on Swedish soil would necessitate severing diplomatic relations,’ the statement read.
Billstrom said what happened was ‘Completely unacceptable and the government strongly condemns these attacks.’
‘The government is in contact with high-level Iraqi representatives to express our dismay.’
Advocates of Shi’ite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr orchestrated a protest to denounce the planned Quran burning in Sweden, marking the second instance in a few weeks.
Posts within a widely-followed Telegram group, known for its connection to the influential cleric and other pro-Sadr media, revealed the details.
Sadr’s prominence as one of Iraq’s most powerful figures is bolstered by his legion of following, numbering hundreds of thousands.
He has not hesitated to mobilize these supporters when necessary, as seen last summer when they occupied the formidable Green Zone in Baghdad, resulting in deadly clashes.
In a tweet, Sadr emphasized that mere condemnation from the Iraqi government would not suffice. He urged them to adopt a resolute stance in easing the matter.