Baghdad, Iraq - November 03, 2024 U.S. Middle East policy has exacerbated divisions in the region, worsened relations between Iran and Israel and brought instability to the region, a former Iraqi official said on Sunday in Baghdad. Iran has promised a "crushing response" to Israel's attacks. The response may involve strikes conducted by Iran-supported Iraqi militia groups, according to U.S. media. Abdul Karim Khalaf, former spokesman for the commander-in-chief of the Iraqi Armed Forces, said he expects the retaliation to be limited in scale, noting that the U.S. election season may provide a window of opportunity. However, he cautioned that the situation is at dire risk of spiraling out of control. The long-standing support from the United States has become a diplomatic shield for Israel, enabling it to take unilateral military actions, said Khalaf. In his view, U.S. Middle East policy has exacerbated divisions in the region, worsening relations between Iran and Israel and bringing instability to the security of the entire Middle East region. The hostile relationship between Iran and Israel is spiraling into a vicious cycle, he said, adding that the de-escalation of the conflict requires concrete support from the international community in diplomatic mediation. Khalaf also noted that Iraq is facing increasing pressure during this process due to its geopolitical position. Shotlist: Baghdad, Iraq - Nov 3, 2024: FILE: Iran - Date Unknown 1. Various of traffic, national flags of Iran; FILE: Israel - Nov 1, 2022 2. Various of Israeli Knesset, national flag of Israel; Baghdad, Iraq - Nov 3, 2024 3. SOUNDBITE (Arabic) Abdul Karim Khalaf, former spokesman for commander-in-chief of Iraqi forces (partially overlaid with shot 4): "The United States is currently focusing on election results. Discussions related to Israel will be postponed until after November 5. I think Iran's retaliation against Israel this time will target military facilities and some key areas, which is similar to previous strikes, aiming at demonstrating its deterrence. If Israel strikes back again, there is no doubt that the Middle East will see another war."; [SHOT OVERLAYING SOUNDBITE] Tehran, Iran - Oct 26, 2024 4. Tehran's air defense system intercepting targets over Iranian military camp; [SHOT OVERLAYING SOUNDBITE] Tehran, Iran - Oct 26, 2024 5. Interception of missiles seen from apartment rooftop; Baghdad, Iraq - Nov 3, 2024 6. SOUNDBITE (Arabic) Abdul Karim Khalaf, former spokesman for commander-in-chief of Iraqi forces (partially overlaid with shot 7): "In this tumultuous situation, Israel is stirring up conflict and disrupting the entire Middle East region, relying on the support of the West, including the United States and its allies. The backing of Western countries led by the United States enables Israel to become a representative of Western interests in the Middle East, serving their hegemonic ambitions."; [SHOT OVERLAYING SOUNDBITE] Washington D.C., USA - October 2024 7. Various of White House, U.S. national flag; [SHOT OVERLAYING SOUNDBITE] FILE: Gaza Strip – Sept-Oct 2024 8. Aerial shot of gutted buildings; Gaza Strip - Oct 26, 2024 9. Kamal Adwan Hospital in ruins after Israeli strike; Baghdad, Iraq - Nov 3, 2024 10. SOUNDBITE (Arabic) Abdul Karim Khalaf, former spokesman for commander-in-chief of Iraqi forces (starting with shot 9): "The only way to achieve de-escalation is for Israel to set aside its arrogance and fully acknowledge and grant the Palestinian people their due rights."; Gaza City, Gaza Strip - Oct 23, 2024 11. Various of fleeing refugees. [Restriction - No access Chinese mainland/Al-Arabiya/Persian language TV Stations outside Iran. Strictly No Access BBC Persian/VOA Persian/Manoto TV/Iran International TV]