Iraq criticises Egypt's Mubarak over war comments

BAGHDAD, Apr 9 (Reuters) The Iraqi government today criticised Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak on Sunday for saying civil war had started in Iraq, referring to his comments as ''a stab in nationality and culture'' of the country.

Prime Minister Ibrahim al-Jaafari said the government had instructed the Iraqi foreign minister to seek clarification from Egypt on the remarks.

Mubarak said in comments broadcast on Saturday, that the large Shi'ite Muslim presence in Arab states were more loyal to Iran than their own countries, echoing accusations made by his fellow Sunnis in Iraq about their country's Shi'ite leaders.

REUTERS RL PM1631