SULAIMANI (ESTA) — The United States said on Thursday it was “deeply disturbed” by the Iraqi parliament’s passage of legislation that criminalizes normalization of ties with Israel.
“In addition to jeopardizing freedom of expression and promoting an environment of antisemitism, this legislation stands in stark contrast to progress Iraq’s neighbors have made by building bridges and normalizing relations with Israel, creating new opportunities for people throughout the region,” the U.S. State Department said in a statement.
The Iraqi Council of Representatives voted on Thursday to approve “Criminalizing Normalization and Establishment of Relations with the Zionist Entity” resolution.
Iraq has never recognized the state of Israel since its establishment in 1948 and Iraqi citizens and companies cannot visit Israel, but the new law goes further, specifically criminalizing any attempts to normalize relations with Israel.
The law was proposed by influential Shia cleric Moqtada al-Sadr whose party, which opposes close ties with the United States and Israel, won more seats in parliament in elections last October.
Following the parliament’s approval, Sadr called on the Iraqi people to take to streets to celebrate.
The U.S. state department said it would continue to be a “strong and unwavering partner” in supporting Israel.
