Baghdad to Continue Relations With Riyadh Despite Saudi Executions

Iraq cares for the security of embassies and diplomatic missions, and cherishes its relations with Saudi Arabia, according to Iraqi Foreign Ministry spokesman Ahmad Jamal.

MOSCOW (Sputnik) — Relations between Baghdad and Riyadh were not halted despite a disagreement on recent Saudi executions, including that of a prominent Shia cleric, Iraqi Foreign Ministry spokesman Ahmad Jamal told Sputnik Monday.

On Saturday, Saudi Arabia announced executions of 47 people on terrorist charges, including Shia preacher Sheikh Nimr al-Nimr, an outspoken critic of the Sunni-ruled kingdom's government.

"Relations between Iraq and Saudi Arabia are continuing. Iraq has previously announced its position, rejected the execution of Sheikh Al-Nimr, as such actions do not contribute to the strengthening of international relations or to peace in society," Jamal said.

According to Jamal, the executed preacher called for peaceful reforms.

"Iraq cares for the security of embassies and diplomatic missions, and cherishes its relations with Saudi Arabia," the spokesman added.

On Saturday, demonstrators in Iran protesting the execution of a prominent al-Nimr by Riyadh, attacked the Saudi embassy in capital Tehran and the consulate in the city of Mashhad. Over 40 people were reportedly arrested.

In the wake of the attacks, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Sudan announced the cutting of diplomatic ties with Iran. Earlier on Monday, the United Arab Emirates announced that it was reducing the number of Iranian diplomats in Abu Dhabi and downgrading the diplomatic ties with Tehran.