Faleh al-Fayyad, UN envoy meet, discuss regional developments

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Al Mayadeen
21 Dec 2024 17:41
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The head of the Popular Mobilization Forces and the UN's Special Representative discuss enhancing UN support for Iraq, security achievements, and regional issues.

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Faleh al-Fayyad, head of Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces, speaking at the conference marking the 10th anniversary of the founding of the PMF on June 13, 2024 (Social media)

The head of the Popular Mobilization Forces, Faleh al-Fayyad, met, on Saturday, with the UN Secretary-General's Special Representative in Iraq, Mohamed al-Hassan. During the meeting, they discussed ways to enhance the United Nations' role in supporting Iraq and the security achievements that have been made.

The two sides also discussed regional developments, particularly the recent updates in Syria, as well as the repercussions of the Israeli aggression on Gaza.

Al-Fayyad emphasized the importance of the international community taking decisive positions to stop the massacres committed by the Israeli occupation and to prevent the escalation of tensions and the expansion of the war in the region.

Warning: Cooperation with foreign entities is treason

Earlier this week, al-Fayyad, in his speech at the security forum for tribal leaders in Kirkuk province regarding the situation in Syria and its impacts, said, "We do not perceive any immediate threats to Iraq, but we are prepared for any potential confrontation," expressing his wish for the Syrian people to "achieve stability and unity."

Al-Fayyad further emphasized, "No one can claim to be fully reassured by what is happening there," noting that "Iraq's perspective has not been considered regarding the developments in Syria over the past years."

He also expressed regret over "the fall of the Syrian army and its targeting by the Israeli entity," adding, "We do not interfere in Syria's internal affairs, but Iraq and Syria share a common security space."

Moreover, al-Fayyad pointed out that "the lack of clarity in Syria necessitates caution, preparation, and vigilance," stressing that the PMF "will not allow the forces of darkness to destabilize Iraq's security again."

He further clarified, "I am not declaring war, nor am I warning of an attack, but I assure you of our full readiness."

Al-Fayyad also affirmed that the PMF operates under the direct command of the Iraqi Prime Minister, stating, "We are the most committed to the state and its values, and to defending its constitution."

He continued, "We in the PMF are fully prepared for any confrontation and are working to ensure the security of Kirkuk in cooperation with all parties, maintaining neutrality with everyone."

Describing Kirkuk as "a miniature version of Iraq governed by the constitution," he reiterated the importance of respecting all communities.

Al-Fayyad significantly also stressed, "Cooperating with foreign entities under the pretext of nationalism or sectarianism is a betrayal of the constitution," noting that "all Iraqis contributed to the victory [against ISIS]."