Iraq PM denounces Israel over Lebanon, Gaza

Iraq's US-backed government denounced Israel's "Criminal" raids on Lebanon and Gaza and the

prime minister warned of the risk of an escalation of violence.

In a rare public foray into affairs beyond its borders, the premier's office said in a statement: "Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki denounces the Israeli raids on Lebanon and warns of the consequences of escalation in the region. (Reuters)