Al-Sudani: Restricting Arms To The State Is A Fundamental Pillar For The Continuation Of Security And Stability
Baghdad / NINA/-In an interview with the American news agency Associated Press, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani affirmed that Iraq’s government operates under the principle of “Iraq First” and is actively working to de-escalate tensions in the region, which serves as a vital artery for global energy supplies.
Regarding the recent aggression against the Islamic Republic of Iran, according to his media office, the Prime Minister explained that the Iraqi government pursued two parallel tracks: maintaining internal security and launching diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation.
He strongly condemned the ongoing situation in Gaza, describing it as a “genuine setback to all humanitarian, moral, and legal standards,” warning that the ongoing famine and killings in the strip amount to genocide. He emphasized the inadequacy of mere statements of condemnation and expressions of concern, calling on all parties to take responsibility to stop the aggression and ensure urgent delivery of humanitarian aid.
On Syria, Al-Sudani reiterated that Syria represents a matter of national security for Iraq. He expressed Iraq’s commitment to Syrian stability and its people’s security, stressing the importance of a comprehensive political process that includes all segments of Syrian society. He also denounced the horrific acts carried out by extremist groups in Syria, comparing them to the brutal terrorism that Iraq once faced, and called for a clear international stance against violence, hatred, and extremism.
Al-Sudani reaffirmed Iraq’s rejection of any attempts to divide Syria, referring to an initiative proposed by Iraq during the Arab Summit in Baghdad that aims to support national dialogue among all Syrian components.
Domestically, the Prime Minister underscored that placing all weapons under the authority of the state is a fundamental pillar of the government program, and that no group has a justification to bear arms in light of the current security stability.
On the presence of the international coalition, Al-Sudani announced that Iraq had reached an agreement with its partners to end the coalition’s mission by September 2026, following serious and responsible dialogue. He also confirmed that bilateral discussions are ongoing to regulate security relations, including two rounds of talks with the United States, with preparations underway for a third round later this year.
He emphasized that Iraq’s relationship with the United States is based on the Strategic Framework Agreement, expressing the government’s intent to develop this relationship into a genuine partnership based on mutual interests and non-interference.
Regarding the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), the Prime Minister stated that its legal framework aligns with the government’s institutional security reform strategy, which supports the development of a professional and structured security establishment.
Speaking on relations with Iran, Al-Sudani reaffirmed Iraq’s opposition to any aggression against its neighbor and rejected the use of Iraqi territory as a corridor for attacks on neighboring countries. He highlighted the strong religious, cultural, and social ties between the two nations, and acknowledged Iran’s support in Iraq’s fight against terrorism.
Al-Sudani also addressed recent terrorist attacks targeting oil fields in the Kurdistan Region, Kirkuk Airport, and the Baiji refineries, labeling them as assaults on the national economy. He stressed that the government is committed to securing an investment-friendly environment for international companies.
On the Turkish front, the Prime Minister welcomed the peace agreement between the Turkish government and the PKK, emphasizing that there is no longer any justification for the presence of Turkish forces in Iraq and calling for their withdrawal. He affirmed Iraq’s strategic relationship with Turkey, with joint efforts to enhance security and economic cooperation—most notably through the Strategic Development Road project.
Politically, Al-Sudani described the upcoming elections as a key democratic event that demonstrates the Iraqi people’s commitment to democratic principles and the peaceful transfer of power. He also stressed the importance of including all political forces in the electoral process, including the Sadrist Movement, given its influential role and capacity to contribute to reform.
The Prime Minister concluded by clarifying that the "Coalition for Reconstruction and Development" is not an electoral project, but rather a reflection of the government's successful trajectory in achieving tangible projects and reforms in a short period, with a focus on sustainable development and improved public services./ End
