Prime Minister Affirms Employee Salaries Secured, Emphasizes Unwavering Anti-Corruption Drive

Prime Minister Ali Falih Al-Zaidi affirmed that combating corruption is "a non-negotiable decision," emphasizing the government's commitment to dismantling corrupt systems, strengthening state authority, and protecting public funds. In a press interview, Al-Zaidi stated anti-corruption is "a final, irreversible decision," not merely an option, as corruption now threatens the state's existence, with elements having infiltrated for theft, not service. He added that "a deviant ideological system, centered on plunder and theft, has emerged," which the government aims to end, opening a new chapter for Iraq. He stressed "no place for corruption or arms outside state control," announcing a "National Sovereignty Conference" later this year to enshrine the state's monopoly on force. Al-Zaidi declared no armed groups would exist outside state framework, ensuring Iraqis enjoy their nation's wealth. He warned a firm stance against those withholding public funds, while offering settlements to those who return ill-gotten gains, upholding legal rights and procedure confidentiality. Personally, Al-Zaidi declared he takes no salary or gifts, pledging to never touch public money. He affirmed he "will not run for another term, nor will he establish a political party," but strives for Iraq to be seen globally as "a true source of leaders." He stated: "I will not permit any dictates from outside our borders, East or West; Iraq's decision is its people's and Parliament's, and the government must implement it." On regional security, Al-Zaidi confirmed specialized committees are verifying claims of attacks from Iraqi territory on Gulf targets, awaiting evidence from concerned parties to act. He noted security forces were instructed to counter any use of Iraqi land for aggression against neighbors, urging against judging the present by the past, as this situation existed upon their assumption of responsibility. Regarding international visits, Al-Zaidi mentioned invitations from France, Britain, and Germany, but prioritized joint work visits to Turkey, Iran, and Saudi Arabia after Washington. Concerning employee salaries, Al-Zaidi reassured they are "secured and regular," a point of utmost governmental concern. He noted national debt was around 208 trillion Iraqi dinars at his government's start, with the budget relying 93% on oil and 7% on non-oil revenues. He presented his economic vision for Iraq, battling between an old economy refusing to die and a modern one struggling to emerge. The government's philosophy aims for a strong market economy, shedding the old. He added they face conflicting laws and old socialist decisions from the dissolved Revolutionary Command Council, ineffective against a constitution built on economic freedom. He confirmed a major push to change inherited laws, which the Council of Ministers will complete and send to Parliament soon. He also revealed plans to establish an "Energy and Development Fund," with Central Bank participation, to be publicly subscribed. Invitations will extend to Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, as well as American and European funds and banks. This fund will support development in industry, agriculture, and all vital sectors. Pertaining to arms control, Al-Zaidi affirmed "no force but the state's force; we will use the power of law to enforce it, no arms but the state's." He clarified a mechanism for weapons handover to armed forces would begin, fully addressing this file, stressing "nothing is stronger than the state." Regarding US support, Al-Zaidi cited discussions with US envoy Tom Barrack about American companies halting operations due to bureaucracy, confirming governmental facilitation of their procedures. He noted receiving support from President Trump via phone, reiterating Iraq's interest is paramount in every step. He concluded that accepting concessions for material gains "is not on our agenda."