Al-Sharq al-Awsat, London, April 5
There is growing chatter about the prospect of an upcoming visit to Iraq by Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman. These rumors spread so quickly that they even solicited a response from Iran, which condemned the possible trip as an “act of provocation,” thereby revealing the deep significance of any such eventuality. Unfortunately, the Saudi Foreign Ministry has since denied any plans for an official visit to Baghdad, which would have made Bin Salman the first Saudi leader to travel to Iraq since the early 1990’s. Sadly, regional leaders have abandoned the Iraqi government by failing to support the country, both in word and deed. A state visit by the crown prince would have bolstered Iraq’s standing and reaffirmed Baghdad’s sovereignty. It also would have strengthened Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, who is working assiduously to free his country from the grip of Iran. After years of American occupation, coupled with the troubling legacy left by his predecessor Nouri al-Maliki, Al-Abadi is investing immense resources into eradicating terrorist infrastructure in Iraq in a bid to stabilize the nation in the near future. He has demonstrated his commitment to this goal by fighting, and subsequently defeating, armed militias seeking to topple his regime. He has rejected separatist movements and worked to rid his government of those accused of corruption or bribery. In order to help Al-Abadi in this relentless effort to modernize Iraq in the aftermath of war, the Arab World would be wise to provide him with any necessary aid. This would not only reinforce Al-Abadi’s longstanding friendship with Gulf leaders, but also help to curb Iran’s growing interference in other countries’ affairs. If a trip by bin Salman was canceled due to mounting pressure, it would be in Saudi Arabia’s best interest to move forward with the original plan. If the rumors were incorrect, then Riyadh should schedule such a trip in order to help Baghdad get back on a path towards prosperity. – Abd al-Rahman al-Rashed