H.E. Irfan Siddiq, the British Ambassador to Iraq, briefed IBBC members today under the Chatham House Rule on the security situation and his political assessment of the war involving Iran.

More than 50 members attended the session. Jon Wilks chaired the discussion, which lasted around an hour, during which members were able to ask questions directly to the Ambassador. He responded openly and in detail.

Questions from members covered a wide range of issues.

The Ambassador outlined the situation on the ground, the principal security risks and threats, the political dynamics within Iraq, and how developments involving Iran may affect activity in Iraq and the wider Gulf region.

Members invited the Ambassador to return to brief the council again as events develop.