Iraq’s foreign ministry issued a statement expressing that “with the continuation of the popular protests calling for reform, and the issuance of statements by foreign countries and international organisations, the Iraqi government affirms the respect of the will of Iraqis to claim their rights guaranteed by the Iraqi constitution”. “Commenting on the reactions of foreign parties regarding the current situation in Iraq”, the statement added, “the Iraqi government calls on all parties to abide by the principle of respect for sovereignty and non-interference in Iraqi internal affairs”.