Premier Maliki recalls Iraqi diplomat from Riyadh

Aswat al-Iraq: Premier Nouri al-Maliki ordered Iraqi foreign ministry to recall an Iraqi diplomat in Riyadh for investigation for his "sectarian talk", as reported.

In a statement by the Premiership, copy received by Aswat al-Iraq, Premier Maliki recalled Maad al-Obaidi to investigate his statements and punishment, if he was wrong.

"National unity cannot be represented by such people", the statement added.

According to media reports, Ubaid had uttered anti-Shiite statement that "the Shiite sect was originated by the Jews to divide Islam", as well as "criticizing Shiite rituals".

According to local news agencies, he described the Kurds as "either a friend or an enemy, not between".