Baghdad: National Security Advisor Qasim al-Araji affirmed that Iraq enjoys political stability and possesses all the foundations of social cohesion, stressing the importance of strengthening a unified and moderate national discourse to confront violent extremism. Speaking at a dialogue forum on combating violent extremism, organized by the National Security Advisory and attended by religious leaders, scholars, and tribal figures representing various segments of Iraqi society, al-Araji said that Iraq is a country of rich religious, cultural, and civilizational diversity, describing this diversity as an authentic source of strength for both the nation and its people.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, al-Araji noted that the Iraqi people listen to and are influenced by their religious and tribal leaders, which places a great responsibility on community leaders to promote a unified national discourse and reinforce the values of moderation and coexistence. Al-Araji explained that political stability has been reinforced by the success of the electoral process, calling for further support through the promotion of acceptance of others, rejection of sectarian rhetoric, and preventing any party from insulting the sanctities of Iraqis across all sects and denominations. He also pointed out that the 2014 fatwa issued by the supreme religious authority aimed to defend Iraq and its holy sites without favoring one sect over another.
He stressed the need to firmly confront voices seeking to incite discord and sectarian strife, emphasizing that the Iraqi government and state institutions are committed to strengthening social cohesion, maintaining civil peace, and enforcing the rule of law equally on all. Al-Araji added that Iraqis have made great sacrifices and faced significant challenges, noting that some internally displaced persons remain due to societal shortcomings, and efforts are ongoing to facilitate their return through enhanced social reconciliation.
He concluded by stating that Iraq is capable of managing its own affairs and maintains balanced, open relations with all countries based on the principle of 'Iraq First,' emphasizing that confronting extremism is a collective responsibility and that safeguarding Iraqi lives and defending the country and its sanctities is a historic and national duty.