The Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned the Lebanese ambassador to Baghdad, Ali Habhab, on Wednesday to express dissatisfaction over recent remarks made by Lebanese President Joseph Aoun concerning Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF).

In a statement, the ministry described Aoun's comments, made during an interview with an Arab media outlet, as "inappropriate," particularly his reference to the PMF as an example in Lebanon's internal political and military debate.

PMF 'legally recognized state institution'

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Deputy Iraqi Foreign Minister for Bilateral Relations, Ambassador Mohammed Bahr al-Uloom, emphasized during the meeting that "the Popular Mobilization Forces are an essential component of Iraq's security and military framework." He added that the PMF is a legal and government-sanctioned institution operating within the official Iraqi state structure.

Bahr al-Uloom noted that invoking the PMF in the context of Lebanon's internal affairs was misplaced and unnecessary, stating, "It would have been more appropriate to avoid involving Iraq or referencing an official Iraqi institution in this context."

The Iraqi deputy minister also conveyed that the Iraqi public reacted with discomfort to the remarks, especially considering Iraq's consistent support for Lebanon through various crises. He expressed hope that President Aoun would revise or clarify his statements in a way that reinforces the "brotherly relations" between the two countries and respects each nation's internal affairs.

Lebanon affirms brotherly relations

For his part, Ambassador Habhab affirmed the depth of the historical and fraternal relations between Lebanon and Iraq. He pledged to convey Iraq's position to the Lebanese leadership and to work toward addressing the situation in a manner that preserves and strengthens bilateral ties.

President Aoun's remarks came during a Tuesday interview in which he stated that Lebanon "will not replicate the Popular Mobilization Forces model in Iraq" to integrate Hezbollah into the Lebanese Army. He affirmed that Hezbollah would not form an independent unit within the army but suggested that individual members could join and undergo integration training.

It is worth noting that the PMF is formally recognized as part of the Iraqi armed forces. According to Iraqi law, its factions and formations are considered legal entities that support national security. They are entitled to maintain their unique identity and operational role as long as it does not threaten Iraq's national security.