Prime Minister Stresses: No Retreat in Iraq's Battle Against Corruption and Drugs

Prime Minister Ali Falih Al-Zaidi affirmed on Friday that Iraq is waging a comprehensive war against corruption and drugs, stressing no leniency or retreat in this decisive battle. He described it as a battle of honor aimed at protecting the nation's future and coming generations. This affirmation came during Al-Zaidi's field visit to the General Directorate for Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances, part of the Ministry of Interior, to review work progress and efforts in combating this dangerous scourge. The visit included a tour of the Directorate's permanent exhibition, where he observed various types of narcotics, their smuggling routes, methods of use, pursuit procedures, and mechanisms for treating users. He also visited the exhibition for the Directorate's martyrs, who fell in operations pursuing drug traffickers, and recited Al-Fatiha, remembering their sacrifices to protect society. Subsequently, Al-Zaidi chaired a meeting with senior Directorate staff, attended by the Director of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Office. He heard a detailed presentation on their work, achieved results, and key challenges facing anti-drug efforts. The Prime Minister clarified that "available data indicates significant progress in the war on drugs, with Iraq leading regional countries in preventing their smuggling or use as a transit point," emphasizing that "the ultimate goal is an Iraq entirely free of narcotics." Al-Zaidi commended the Directorate's personnel, calling for increased work and continuous development. He also directed attention to drug users and their treatment, along with providing all necessary requirements and capabilities for the Directorate to perform its duties fully. Furthermore, Al-Zaidi instructed forming a committee of relevant authorities to follow up on the drug file, submitting monthly reports detailing achievements and documenting all seizures and destructions.