Security Advisor Affirms Accountability for Targeting Neighbors, Government's Resolve to Confine Arms

Qasim Al-Araji, the Security Advisor to the Prime Minister, affirmed on Tuesday that the government is determined to hold accountable anyone involved in targeting neighboring countries, emphasizing its commitment to restricting arms to the state and its legitimate institutions. In televised statements, Al-Araji stressed the government's seriousness and full resolve to settle the arms issue, confirming its continuous efforts to place all weapons under state control. He added that all contentious points are open for resolution and understanding through negotiation, reiterating the government's aim to confine arms to state and legitimate institutions. Al-Araji also clarified that the timing of the coalition's withdrawal should not be linked to the issue of arms confinement, noting that the fate of faction members and their integration would be easily agreed upon. He further mentioned that Ghalibaf's visit was highly official, and during it, there was no discussion about factions or arms control. He emphasized that the factions' file is purely Iraqi and will be resolved domestically in line with Iraq's national interests. He underscored that the arms file is Iraqi, and its solution will be purely Iraqi without any external interference. He added that the government would continue coordination and consultation with Washington after the withdrawal, in accordance with the bilateral agreements between the two countries. Al-Araji affirmed Iraq's pride in its strategic relations and Arab depth, stating that the government does not seek confrontation but rather understanding and containment for sustainable security. He concluded by emphasizing that the government has no intention of using force or igniting a war with any party, stressing that Iraq faces important internal commitments that the government is determined to fulfill.