Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi announced that the international coalition forces’ combat mission in Iraq against ISIS will end next September, with the forces leaving Iraq permanently.
In a media interview, excerpts of which were published by the Iraqi government’s media department, Al-Zaidi said that the Iraqis faced ISIS in defense of their homeland, and at the same time they fought a battle to protect the security of the region and the world, with the support of the United States and friendly countries, noting that the war left major damage to infrastructure and wide economic losses.
He stressed that the government conducted an in-depth dialogue with the armed factions, and stressed that the state is the unifying framework, and the presence of weapons outside its institutions cannot be accepted, while acknowledging the role that the factions played in confronting terrorism, considering that the current stage requires everyone to move to work through state institutions.
He added that the government called on all parties to preserve their history and sacrifices, because the goal is to build a state, not just run a government.
Al-Zaidi revealed the preparations for holding a “sovereignty conference,” which aims to confirm that the Iraqi decision is in the hands of the Iraqis, and to establish an Iraq free of foreign forces and any armed formations outside the framework of the state.
He stressed that the Gulf states represent the historical, cultural and social depth of Iraq, and that Baghdad adopts a policy of balance and openness with everyone, noting that the relationship with Iran is based on good neighbourliness, respect and common interests, as is the case with the rest of the countries of the region.
He stressed that Iraq does not accept dictates from any party, and that its decisions are based on the interest of the Iraqis, expressing Baghdad’s welcome to hosting any dialogue that contributes to calming the region, including discussions between the United States and Iran.
He also confirmed that the investigations did not prove that any attacks were launched from Iraqi territory towards Saudi Arabia, indicating that clear directives were issued to prevent any future violations, in order to preserve the security of Iraq and its people.
