Al-Fayyadh: Foreign Troop Conduct in Iraq Generated Numerous Problems and Challenges

The head of the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) Commission, Faleh Al-Fayyadh, affirmed on Sunday that the conduct of foreign forces present in the country has led to the emergence of numerous problems and challenges. Al-Fayyadh's remarks came during the official ceremony celebrating the twelfth anniversary of the PMF's establishment, where he expressed honor in recalling those who responded to the supreme religious authority's fatwa, rising to defend Iraq. He reiterated that foreign forces' actions within Iraqi territory have resulted in many significant issues and challenges. He explained that during ISIS's invasion of Iraq, Iraqis responded to the defensive jihad fatwa, aiming to protect the homeland and its holy sites. He noted that "leaders of victory" inscribed glorious pages in Iraq's history with their pure blood and souls, outlining a clear victory. Al-Fayyadh further stated that the supreme religious authority's fatwa served as a divine light that saved Iraq from its most dangerous existential threat. Iraq overcame terrorism, embodied by ISIS and Al-Qaeda, thanks to immense sacrifices and great heroics by its sons. He added that the PMF's epic enabled Iraq to break ISIS's back and achieve victory over terrorism, in a battle major international powers had failed to resolve. He stressed that the country now enjoys security and stability, possessing strength and resilience, thanks to the great sacrifices by PMF members and other security forces. In a related context, Al-Fayyadh indicated that Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi is currently laying the foundations for a new phase in Iraq, based on construction, stability, and consolidation of state institutions. Al-Fayyadh reaffirmed the continuation of efforts to solidify the PMF's identity as an official force subordinate to the Commander-in-Chief, tasked with defending the Iraqi state and its sovereignty. The PMF Commission head concluded by emphasizing that the PMF will remain committed to its pledges, steadfast in upholding the law and strengthening national identity, and a staunch defender of Iraq's heritage, sovereignty, and unity.