MESOP LATEST : Fouad Massoum regrets Iran’s absence in anti-IS conference

15-9-2014 – KURDPRESS – Iraqi President Fouad Massoum has voiced regret over Iran’s absence in international Paris conference to discuss the battle against the militants of the Islamic State (IS) that are controlling a large part of Iraq and Syria.

The five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council and Arab countries will take part in the 26-nation conference, scheduled to take place in Paris on Monday.

In an exclusive interview with the Associated Press on Sunday Massoum also said it was “not necessary” for Egypt, UAE, or Saudi Arabia to take part in any airstrikes against the jihadist group. Some Arab states have offered to carry out airstrikes against the IS, the report quoted a US State Department official as saying. The Iraqi president had earlier called for Iran’s participation in the international conference. On Friday, US President Barack Obama said that the United States is assembling an international coalition with the goal to “snuff out” the IS terrorist group, adding that such extremist groups have “no place in the 21st century.” The Islamic Republic of Iran has repeatedly voiced support for the Iraqi government since it began fighting against the radical group.