Baghdad: Government spokesman Haider Al-Aboudi announced that Iraq had no prior knowledge of the Saudi-US strikes on Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) positions. Al-Aboudi stated that Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi has instructed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to document the attack with the United Nations. He also reassured that public sector salaries are secured, countering reports suggesting otherwise.

According to Iraqi News Agency, Al-Aboudi, addressing a press conference, emphasized that Iraq was not informed about the strikes on PMF positions. He highlighted the Prime Minister's directive to document these attacks with the UN, underscoring the government's position on securing national interests and maintaining transparency.

Al-Aboudi assured that public sector salaries are safe, dismissing rumors of a shift to a 40-day distribution cycle. He indicated that the government is focused on addressing the state's challenges and enhancing Iraq's capabilities, with ongoing dialogues to ensure weapons are restricted to state control, in line with a timetable set for the end of September.

The Prime Minister has received an invitation to visit Saudi Arabia, though a date is yet to be determined. Al-Aboudi mentioned the impact of the Strait of Hormuz closure on Iraq's oil exports, and the government's efforts in establishing strategic routes with Turkey to bolster state revenues.

Despite the economic crisis, the government has avoided external borrowing, with efforts from the Ministry of Finance and the Central Bank to mitigate financial challenges. On corruption, Al-Aboudi stated that the anti-corruption campaign continues, with judicial requests sent to Interpol and foreign countries to extradite individuals wanted on corruption charges.

Al-Aboudi reiterated Iraq's neutral stance, avoiding regional alignments, while supporting political and economic cooperation. He noted ongoing political dialogues, despite the absence of nine ministries, ensuring governmental duties continue. The Prime Minister has instructed ministry undersecretaries to participate in Cabinet meetings.

He highlighted directives for securing air defense systems and regular coordination to assume positions from international coalition forces by September 30. The collaboration between the State Administration Coalition and Coordination Framework supports the ministerial agenda.

Al-Aboudi concluded that the government's stance on weapon restriction is a legal measure to protect Iraq's resources and assure neighboring countries of Iraq's non-participation in attacks against other states.