Karbouli voiced concerns that some countries might cut ties with Iraq or reduce their diplomatic representation there because of the kidnappings.
Neither the army nor the police have developed “effective solutions to ensure the security of citizens, let alone the diplomatic missions,” he said, adding, “Armed gangs threaten the structure of the state.”
“We need an authority that can control gangs,” he said.
Karbouli’s concerns over diplomatic representation seem justified. Saudi Foreign Minister Adel al-Jubeir did not hesitate to reveal threats received by the Saudi Embassy in Baghdad after the Saudi diplomatic headquarters in Iran was attacked following Saudi authorities' execution of Shiite cleric Nimr al-Nimr on Jan. 2.
“We are seriously examining the Iranian threats against our diplomats in Baghdad," Jubeir said Jan. 3.
However, Ahmed Jamal, spokesman for the Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs, denied that there is any threat to the Saudi Embassy in Baghdad.
“We are committed to the protection of diplomatic missions in Iraq in accordance with the norms of international law. We are also keen to develop bilateral relations with Saudi Arabia and Qatar, among other countries,” Jamal told Al-Monitor.
“There is no doubt that the taking of hostages in Iraq is regretful and condemned, and we, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, have announced our total rejection of the kidnapping of the Qatari tourists and three Americans,” he added.
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