Baghdad: Sadrist Movement leader Muqtada al-Sadr has announced his anticipation for the withdrawal of US forces and international coalition troops from Iraq, urging the American side to comply with the Iraqi national decision.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, al-Sadr expressed his sentiments in a statement posted on the X platform, where he highlighted his eagerness for the withdrawal of US and international coalition forces from Iraq by the previously established date of September 30 this year. He emphasized the necessity for the US to adhere to this Iraqi national decision, asserting that such an action would be advantageous for Iraq, the United States, and the global community.

Al-Sadr conveyed his hope that the withdrawal would not lead to foreign interference in Iraq’s internal matters, which he warned could jeopardize the nation’s sovereignty, independence, and international standing. He cautioned both neighboring and distant countries against meddling in Iraq’s affairs, making it clear that he would oppose any such interference.

The Sadrist leader also urged Iraqi politicians to avoid repeating past mistakes by calling for US intervention, emphasizing that Iraq is capable of self-protection through its security forces, particularly border guards and air forces, and its central government, without resorting to sectarian, ethnic, or other internal conflicts.

He affirmed that the Iraqi populace is aware of the situation and will unite across all its components to resist any foreign intervention, irrespective of its origin. Al-Sadr additionally stated that the anticipated withdrawal date would signify ‘the beginning of Iraq’s prosperity and the end of corruption, injustice, dictatorship, occupation, and terrorism.’ He underscored the importance of reinforcing Iraq’s security institutions under the command of the commander-in-chief of the armed forces.

In his concluding remarks, al-Sadr reiterated his dedication to serving all segments of the Iraqi population, including various sects, ethnic groups, and minorities. He emphasized that both he and his movement have consistently endeavored to combat ‘the ominous triad: occupation, terrorism, and corruption,’ without relying on external assistance.