Iraqi President Barham Salih indicated that the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) were formed at a time when ISIS stormed Mosul and the country was facing a crisis, however, all these forces must now be subject to state authority.
Salih confirmed that there was an agreement between Baghdad and Washington on the complete withdrawal of US troops from Iraq.
Baghdad and Washington do not want a permanent US military presence in Iraq, adding that Iran is “our neighbor and we want to integrate it into the regional framework, but we are also keen on maintaining our sovereignty.”
Speaking during an interview broadcast live online with the Beirut Institute think tank, Salih called for international cooperation to solve regional conflicts.
The president also addressed the problems of al-Hol camp, saying it housed many foreign fighters, and Iraq alone couldn't deal with the issue, urging international cooperation on the matter.
Salih also pointed out that the protest movement that swept Iraq in 2019 had an important goal as Iraqi youth took to the streets demanding reforms. He stressed that getting out of the decades of conflict required political will and a decision from the Iraqis themselves.
Iraq faces many regional challenges, said Salih, noting that his country is trying to bring the opposing parties together.
Salih also stated that most Iraqis want to move forward with the help of regional partners and friends to build a prosperous country.
“We do not want Iraq to turn into an area for conflicts," asserted the President.
