Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani visited the headquarters of the Popular Mobilization Forces, where he met with the head of the organization, its chief of staff, and a number of commanders, officers, and officials.
During the visit, Al-Sudani stressed that the government “cannot tolerate any targeting of the fighters from the Popular Mobilization Forces and the other branches and formations of our armed forces,” praising the role of the Popular Mobilization Forces and their great sacrifices that contributed to protecting Iraq and strengthening its sovereignty and independence, and announcing his full support for this essential force within the security forces.
In a strong message, the Commander-in-Chief of the Iraqi Armed Forces stressed that accusing the Popular Mobilization Forces of "carrying out actions outside the framework of the state and the law is an accusation that stems either from ignorance or represents a deliberate attempt to mislead with its own objectives."
He added that the Popular Mobilization Forces "represent today a fundamental force operating within the framework of the constitution and the law, and adhering to the higher orders issued by the official authorities."
Al-Sudani affirmed that the Popular Mobilization Forces “performed with discipline and concern for the state and the political system, and made great sacrifices for that purpose.” He pointed out that the Popular Mobilization Forces “played a remarkable role in thwarting the most important plots that targeted the unity of Iraq, when ISIS terrorists targeted it,” stressing that “preserving and supporting the Popular Mobilization Forces is everyone’s responsibility, because it represents a symbol of sacrifice and loyalty.”
The Prime Minister directed that "the families of the martyrs of the Popular Mobilization Forces and their wounded heroes be cared for, and that serviced residential lands be secured for their families," considering that "this is the least of their rights from the state."
At the conclusion of his visit, Al-Sudani stressed to the security services the importance of "continuing to carry out their duties in maintaining security and stability, not allowing any party to drag Iraq into the ongoing war in the region, and continuing to protect vital facilities, headquarters and diplomatic missions."
