Iraq asks Saudi Arabia to replace ambassador

The Iraqi foreign ministry has asked Saudi Arabia to replace Thamer Sabhan, its ambassador in Baghdad, state television reported on Sunday.

Shia politicians in the Iraqi capital have asked repeatedly for Sabhan to be expelled for his comments about Iran’s interference in Iraq and allegations that Shia factions backed by Tehran increase tensions with the Sunnis.

The ministry has, however, denied media reports about a plot to assassinate the Saudi ambassador, who was the first to be appointed by the kingdom following the reopening of its embassy in Baghdad last December.

A foreign ministry spokesman, Ahmad Jamal, said that all diplomatic missions operating in Baghdad enjoy adequate protection provided by Iraqi security agencies.