ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Tuesday called for greater political inclusion in Iraq ahead of national elections later this year, warning the United Nations that rising regional tensions could undermine the stability of the Arab country.

Speaking at a UN Security Council briefing on the United Nations Assistance Mission in Iraq (UNAMI), Pakistan鈥檚 Ambassador to the UN, Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, praised Iraq鈥檚 efforts to strengthen democratic institutions and improve governance.

The UN mission was established in 2003 following the US-led invasion, with a mandate to support Iraq鈥檚 political transition, humanitarian coordination and national reconciliation. The mission is set to conclude by the end of 2025, as part of a structured drawdown approved by the Security Council last year.

Ahmed said Islamabad supported Iraq鈥檚 progress but remained concerned about the broader security situation in the Middle East, including ongoing conflicts in neighboring states and the risk of Iraq being drawn into regional confrontations.

鈥淧akistan remains concerned about the volatile regional security environment, which poses a risk to Iraq鈥檚 stability,鈥� Ahmad told the Council. 鈥淲e reiterate our firm support for Iraq鈥檚 sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity. It is imperative that Iraq not be drawn into regional confrontations.鈥�

The ambassador encouraged all political stakeholders in Iraq to maintain dialogue and inclusivity as the country prepares for national elections in November, urging them to address institutional gaps and reinforce democratic processes.

He also welcomed Iraq鈥檚 recent reforms, including the implementation of the federal budget and successful provincial council elections.

Pakistan also highlighted the need for sustained humanitarian attention, particularly for internally displaced persons (IDPs), and acknowledged Iraq鈥檚 progress in enabling voluntary returns and reintegration.

As the UNAMI mission approaches the end of its mandate, Pakistan welcomed transition planning but emphasized that the process must remain 鈥渋nclusive, coordinated and responsive to Iraq鈥檚 national priorities.鈥�