Baghdad: Al-Nasr Coalition leader Haider al-Abadi has condemned what he terms as a US-Saudi breach of Iraq's sovereignty, asserting that the Iraqi constitution mandates exclusive state control over the use of force. He urged dialogue to resolve the issue and highlighted a pressing financial crisis that necessitates immediate economic reforms.

According to Iraqi News Agency, al-Abadi made these remarks at the opening session organized by the Baghdad Council for Dialogue in Baghdad's Old City. He stated, "The American-Saudi attack is unacceptable, and there is no justification for targeting people unconnected to the main incident, especially since, as per government authorities, conclusive evidence proving that the attack originated from Iraqi territory is still lacking." He stressed the need for thorough investigation and due process, emphasizing that no party should act as accuser, judge, and executioner concurrently.

Al-Abadi reiterated that the constitution explicitly supports the state's monopoly on the use of force, a principle upheld by every government since 2003 with the consensus of all political factions. He pointed out that no political bloc has ever objected to this principle's inclusion in the government program sanctioned by the Council of Representatives.

Addressing the financial situation, al-Abadi noted that Iraq faces a serious economic crisis, with oil exports remaining below 12% of their usual levels for over four months. He explained that financial challenges were present even before the Strait of Hormuz's closure. He called for genuine economic reforms and intensified efforts to eradicate corruption.

Reflecting on his tenure as Prime Minister and Acting Minister of Finance, al-Abadi detailed his review of budget allocations and expenditures. With approximately 3,500 accounting units across government institutions, alongside numerous smaller units, the aggregated expenditures on items like fuel and maintenance significantly strain the state budget, restricting the government's ability to pay salaries and fund essential services.

Al-Abadi proposed reducing unnecessary spending to avoid impacting citizens' livelihoods. He warned that unchecked public expenditure diverts funds toward populist spending, often benefiting corrupt individuals rather than society. He stressed that oil wealth belongs to all Iraqis, advocating for fair distribution as oil revenues are the primary state income source.

Concluding his address, al-Abadi expressed optimism over recent US administration statements during Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi's visit. He noted the emphasis on Iraq's role as a key regional partner, suggesting Washington's reluctance to impose severe financial restrictions on Iraq, a stance that aligns with the Iraqi people's best interests.