Iraq now fully sovereign, arms under military chief’s control: PM Zaidi
Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Faleh Al-Zaidi says Iraq has regained full sovereignty after the coalition’s mission ended, with all arms under the armed forces chief.
Key Takeaways
AIIraqi Prime Minister Ali Faleh Al-Zaidi said Iraq has fully regained its sovereignty following the end of the international coalition’s military mission, stressing that the country now makes its own decisions and protects its land and airspace.
According to the Iraqi News Agency, Zaidi reaffirmed his government’s commitment to continue fighting corruption, safeguarding public funds, strengthening national unity, and building a strong and just state centered on its citizens.
In a speech marking Iraq’s National Day, Zaidi stated that the country completed its sovereignty on September 30, 2026, with the conclusion of the coalition mission. He emphasized, “Iraq today is a state that holds its own decision-making power, protects its land and airspace, and all weapons are under the authority of the commander-in-chief of the armed forces.” He also noted that Iraq is pursuing a balanced foreign policy that prioritizes national interests and builds relations with other countries based on mutual interests and respect.
Zaidi added that since taking office, his government has faced highly complex circumstances and ongoing challenges due to regional developments and conflicts, necessitating efforts to protect Iraq’s interests, security, sovereignty, and national decision-making. He pointed out that the coming phase requires strengthening national cohesion to maintain stability and focus on building the future.
On the economic front, Zaidi explained that the government is addressing economic challenges by diversifying income sources, developing international partnerships, empowering the private sector, and creating job opportunities. He also highlighted the shift toward a program and performance-based budget to link government spending to results. Ongoing strategic projects include the distribution of one million residential land plots, the establishment of a generational fund, economic cities, and the Development Road project.
The prime minister reaffirmed continued efforts to combat corruption, enhance preventive oversight, and protect public funds, reiterating his commitment to keeping Iraq’s interests above all else and to building a strong and just state.
Zaidi concluded his speech by stressing that, with national unity and social harmony, Iraq can move from crisis management to building the future, calling for the preservation of national unity in a homeland that embraces all its people.