Baghdad: Sheikh Hammam Hammoudi, head of the Abshir Ya Iraq Alliance, emphasized that Iraq’s future relies on its youth, asserting that once foreign forces withdraw, Iraq will settle for nothing less than full sovereignty over its territory, national decision-making, and financial resources.

According to Iraqi News Agency, Hammoudi made these remarks at the first Youth Forum organized by the Supreme Islamic Council, coinciding with the anniversary of the Prophet Muhammad’s birth. He highlighted the significance of the occasion as a pivotal moment in human history, noting that the Prophet founded a nation grounded in justice, equality, and humanity, which went on to influence the world.

Hammoudi encouraged young Iraqis to draw inspiration from the Prophet’s teachings, emphasizing attributes such as clarity of mind, honesty, drive, enthusiasm, patience, and steadfastness. He believes these qualities, which once propelled the banner of Islam, are essential for Iraq’s youth to shape the nation’s future.

He further stated that Iraq, now under its people’s control, has resisted attempts by what he termed ‘forces of evil’ to revert the country to its previous state. The awareness and determination of the Iraqi people have thwarted any such attempts.

Hammoudi announced that September 30 would mark a victory declaration with the withdrawal of foreign forces, underscoring that Iraq would then demand complete sovereignty ‘on land, in the air, and at sea,’ and full control over its national decisions and financial resources, from north to south.

Regarding the issue of state control over weapons, Hammoudi acknowledged the respect owed to weapons that defended Iraq’s sovereignty and dignity. He insisted that this matter would be resolved through dialogue and mutual understanding, ensuring that ‘not a single drop of blood will be shed’ over the issue.

The forum also included artistic performances and discussions on the country’s current affairs, the role of young people, and their responsibilities in the present stage.