Baghdad: Head of the State of Law Coalition, Nouri al-Maliki, emphasized Iraq's key position in regional affairs, asserting that the nation is a fundamental player rather than a marginal one. In a televised address, al-Maliki urged the government, political factions, and tribal leaders to focus on preserving internal security, ensuring stability, and safeguarding Iraq's sovereignty. According to National Iraqi News Agency, al-Maliki highlighted the critical role of the supreme religious authority, Sayyid Ali al-Sistani, in guiding the nation. He called for adherence to al-Sistani's principles, which prioritize choosing competent individuals for state institutions, tackling corruption, and addressing the issue of unregulated weapons that threaten political stability. Furthermore, al-Maliki stressed the importance of maintaining Iraq's sovereignty, fostering international relations free from external interference, and preparing for security and terrorism challenges.