Baghdad: The head of the Popular Mobilization Commission, Faleh al-Fayyad, affirmed that “martyrdom is not tied to a homeland or place, but rather to a servant chosen by God to defend values.”

According to National Iraqi News Agency, during a speech at the memorial ceremony commemorating the sixth anniversary of the martyrdom of the Victory Leaders, al-Fayyad stated, “The assassination of the Victory Leaders was a major crime against the Iraqi people, and this place, which witnessed the ascension of their pure souls, has gained sanctity from them.” He further explained that those who are killed defending their land and honor walk the path of jihad in the way of God, and the blood of the martyred leaders embodies the highest covenants of sacrifice and faith.

Al-Fayyad added that there is a great responsibility in upholding the principles of the martyrs by defending the security of Iraq. He pledged to the wise religious leadership to remain faithful to the covenant in protecting the holy sites and defending the homeland.

He emphasized that the Popular Mobilization Forces are not a sectarian entity, but rather a sacred spiritual body that has ensured Iraq’s survival. He explained that Iraq regained its identity after 2014, thanks to the sacrifices of the Popular Mobilization Forces.

Al-Fayyad continued by reflecting on the state of Iraq in 2014, when the country was mired in fragmentation and sectarianism. He credited the Popular Mobilization Forces with playing a decisive role in liberating the country, and asserted that the security and stability of the people in the liberated areas resulted from the sacrifices and loyalty of the PMF to the nation.

Concluding his speech, the head of the Popular Mobilization Forces refuted claims that the PMF is not a central force, stating that the sacrifices have proven otherwise.