Iraqi President Reaffirms Iraqi Government, KRG Remain in Constant Communication

Iraqi Presidency

Iraqi President Abdullatif Jamal Rashid.

Iraqi President Abdullatif Jamal Rashid reaffirmed that the Iraqi federal government and the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) remain in constant communication, and that a final decision has recently been reached regarding the Kurdistan Region's oil exports. 

In an exclusive interview with France 24, Iraqi President Abdullatif Jamal Rashid spoke on regional security, foreign military presence, and domestic political developments.

On the humanitarian situation in Gaza, President Rashid expressed deep concern, stating: "The tragic situation in Gaza cannot continue forever, with the bloodshed of children and civilians, and the shortage of food and medical supplies." 

He added that "everyone in this region is concerned about the Israeli attacks, and the right solution to achieve peace and stability lies first and foremost in a cessation of hostilities."

Regarding U.S. troops in Iraq, the President emphasised: "The presence or withdrawal of U.S. forces in Iraq is subject to an agreement between Iraq and the United States. We have now reached a stage in Iraq that no longer requires the presence of multinational or U.S. forces, and of course, the final decision regarding the timing of the withdrawal rests with both sides."

President Rashid highlighted Iraq’s security achievements and the defeat of the Islamic State (ISIS), noting: "ISIS has been decisively defeated, all our borders are under control, and we are monitoring the movement of any terrorist organisation in the region." 

He also called for the closure of the Al-Hawl camp, which hosts thousands of families of ISIS fighters, citing its continued presence on the border as a serious threat to Iraq, Syria, and potentially Türkiye.

On regional tensions, the President expressed hope that attacks on Iranian facilities by Israel or the United States would not recur, noting that "the Iranian side has repeatedly affirmed its absolute lack of intention to possess nuclear weapons." 

Regarding the Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF), he reiterated that the PMF are an integral part of Iraq’s security apparatus, established to combat ISIS and terrorism.

Domestically, President Rashid confirmed that the federal government and the KRG remain in constant communication, with a final decision recently reached regarding oil exports. 

He also stressed ongoing efforts to ensure that the upcoming parliamentary elections are fair, democratic, and closely monitored by various organisations.



PUKMEDIA