Baghdad: Interior Minister Abdul Amir al-Shammari announced today the adoption of a comprehensive national project aimed at combating violent extremism, emphasizing that the effort extends beyond security measures to include intellectual, social, and developmental aspects.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, al-Shammari made the announcement in an official statement on the occasion of the International Day for Countering Violent Extremism, observed annually on February 12 as designated by the United Nations General Assembly. He highlighted Iraq’s national and humanitarian responsibility to address extremist ideologies that threaten societal security and undermine the foundations of coexistence and civil peace.

Al-Shammari noted that Iraq, having faced terrorism challenges for years, managed to defeat extremist organizations and re-establish state institutions based on law and justice, thanks to the unity of its people and the sacrifices of its security forces.

He outlined that the national project to combat extremism focuses on promoting a culture of moderation, strengthening citizenship values, empowering youth, and enhancing the role of responsible media in shielding society from extremist rhetoric. Additionally, the project aims to improve the capabilities of security agencies and adopt modern strategies that emphasize early prevention and address the intellectual, social, and economic roots of extremism.

The Interior Minister reaffirmed the commitment to firmly enforce the law against any threats to national security. He urged state institutions, civil society organizations, religious leaders, intellectuals, and the media to collaborate in creating a safe environment based on mutual respect and reinforcing the concept that the protection of future generations is a collective responsibility that starts with moderate thinking.