Iraqi President on ISIS Defeat, US Troop Withdrawal, and Regional Security

Security and ISIS Threat

• 🎯 Iraqi President Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid asserts that ISIS has been defeated badly and poses no immediate threat of return.
• 🛡️ He emphasizes that all of Iraq's borders are controlled, and the movement of any terrorist organization is being closely observed.
• ⚠️ Rashid dismisses concerns from some Iraqi politicians about ISIS re-emerging after a potential US troop withdrawal, stating that decisions about troop presence are mutual agreements.

US Troop Presence and Withdrawal

• 🤝 The presence of US troops in Iraq is described as a mutual agreement between the Iraqi and US governments.
• 🙏 Rashid expresses gratitude for American help in fighting terrorism but indicates that Iraq may no longer need multinational or American forces long-term.
• 🗓️ The decision on when US troops will leave is up to both governments, with some withdrawal already underway.

Regional Conflicts and Concerns

• 🕊️ Regarding the situation in Gaza, Rashid expresses hope for a peace plan, noting the daily suffering of civilians and the need to stop the fighting.
• 🌍 He acknowledges concerns about potential Israeli targeting of Iraq, given recent attacks on Lebanon, Jordan, Syria, and Iran, but hopes it will not happen.
• 🇮🇷 On Iran's nuclear program, he hopes for de-escalation and notes statements from the Iranian government indicating no interest in nuclear arms.

Internal Iraqi Affairs

• 🎖️ The Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) are described as part of the Iraqi security forces, established to fight ISIS, and not a militia.
• ⚖️ The withdrawal of a law concerning the PMF was due to upcoming parliamentary elections, not US pressure, and a decision on their future structure is needed.
• 🤝 Rashid shares positive news about an agreement to export oil from the Kurdistan region, which he believes will help solve financial issues and salary disputes with the central government.

Electoral Process

• ✅ The Iraqi President is committed to ensuring that the upcoming elections are fair, democratic, and observed by international organizations.
• 🗳️ He acknowledges that some individuals may boycott the elections but states that the majority of the population has accepted to participate.