A strong lobby is emerging in Iraq to promote the idea of diplomatic relations with Israel, the new Iraqi ambassador to London told Tel Aviv-based Haaretz daily.
In comments published Friday, Dr. Salah al-Shaikhly, who was appointed two months ago, said that the issue would be raised after the general elections next year, and "now is not the right time." Al-Shaikhly told the Israeli paper that he did not have "any problem with Israel or Israelis who wish to visit Iraq," but he also noted, "I really don't know what is the position of as yet, but you should know there is a strong lobby working for you in Iraq." (Albawaba.com)
© 2004 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
