In an exclusive interview with FRANCE 24, Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki accused Saudi Arabia and Qatar of supporting global “terrorism” and seeking to destabilise Iraq.

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“I accuse them of inciting and encouraging the terrorist movements. I accuse them of supporting them politically and in the media, of supporting them with money and by buying weapons for them,” Maliki told FRANCE 24’s Marc Perelman. “I accuse them of leading an open war against the Iraqi government.”

Maliki went on to say that not only did Saudi Arabia support terrorism in countries such as Iraq and Syria, but around the world.

The prime minister said, however, that Iraq did not intend to retaliate against Saudi Arabia and Qatar, citing concern over the region’s stability.

“We don’t wish to widen the arena of confrontation,” Maliki said. “But, we’re telling those countries, be aware, be careful, because the support of terrorism will turn against you.”

Maliki also discussed Iraq’s security situation during the interview, as well as the country’s upcoming parliamentary elections in April and the impact of neighbouring Syria’s nearly three-year crisis.

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