Iraqi PM: The state does not exclude its sons but organizes their energies within the framework of law and the constitution

Iraqi Prime Minister and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Ali Faleh al-Zaidi, on Wednesday evening called on Iraq’s armed factions to be at the heart of the state rather than outside it, affirming that their weapons and personnel belong within the state and its institutions.

In a televised address marking “Sovereignty Day” and the conclusion of the international coalition’s mission against the Daesh (ISIS) terrorist group, al-Zaidi said: “We send a message of love to our brothers who fought for the homeland and took up arms when Iraq faced terrorism... In the name of the nation, we thank you and urge you today to be at the heart of the state, not outside it.”

He added: “Your weapons and personnel belong within the state and its institutions. Let your experience and sacrifices serve as an added strength that benefits Iraq under a single national doctrine, a single flag, and a unified military and security decision.”

He stated that “the state does not exclude its sons; rather, it organizes their energies and channels them within the framework of the law and the Constitution.” He further noted that “this is the equation of sovereignty: a single weapon held by the state, Iraqi land free of foreign forces, and a national decision that represents everyone and is not subject to anyone’s oversight.”

He added: “Iraqis have paid a heavy price with years of patience, and the proliferation of weapons in our homeland turned Iraq into a battleground for others instead of a safe country for its own people.”

He emphasized that “loyalty to sovereignty requires all of us to protect Iraq’s resources and safeguard public funds. Therefore, we will continue to confront challenges, develop the state’s resources, and strengthen its foundations, where public office is a responsibility, not a privilege.”