Commander-in-Chief Affirms Iraq's Airspace and Sovereignty as Red Lines, Unwavering Protection for National Security

Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Ali Al-Zaidi, affirmed that Iraq's skies and sovereignty represent a national symbol that must not be violated or its security compromised by any party. He directed that all air defense requirements and needs be met. This statement followed a late-night visit by the Prime Minister, Commander-in-Chief, from Wednesday to Thursday, to the Air Defense Command's Operations Center. The visit aimed to inspect the air defense system's operational status, readiness, and tasks in protecting Iraqi airspace. The Commander-in-Chief's visit comes amid preparations for the next phase and monitoring readiness across operational sectors, aligning with the Iraqi-American agreement to end the international coalition's mission and complete its withdrawal from Iraq by September 30. This underscores the critical importance of strengthening the Iraqi Armed Forces and air defense systems to fully assume responsibility for safeguarding national airspace and sovereignty. During the visit, Al-Zaidi received a detailed briefing from the Air Defense Commander, covering the system's current state, control of operational sectors, and the proposed strategy for developing specialized units. This strategy is part of the 2026-2031 air defense capacity-building plan, targeting an integrated air defense system through advanced radar detection, monitoring capabilities, modern weapon systems, and updated command and control. Meeting with Air Defense leadership and officers, alongside the Director of the Commander-in-Chief's Office, the Army Chief of Staff, and the Secretary-General of the Ministry of Defense, Al-Zaidi stressed that air defense serves as Iraq's shield and primary line of defense for its sovereignty. He elaborated that building capable armed forces is essential for consolidating Iraq's sovereignty and empowering its independent political and military decision-making. The Commander-in-Chief reiterated directives to fulfill all air defense requirements, elevate its combat and technological standards, and provide resources for an advanced system capable of protecting Iraqi airspace. He reaffirmed that Iraq's skies and sovereignty are a red line, not to be breached or its security compromised by any entity. Al-Zaidi further emphasized that while Iraq is dedicated to protecting its national security and sovereignty, it will not permit its territories or airspace to be used as a launching point for aggression against neighboring countries. He highlighted Iraq's role in enhancing regional security and stability, asserting that its armed forces are a bulwark safeguarding Iraq, its sovereignty, and its national resolve.