Duhok: The Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General in Iraq, Mohammed Al-Hassan, emphasized that the future of a 'new Middle East' can only be shaped by its own people during his speech at the Sixth Forum on Peace and Security in the Middle East held in Duhok. The event saw participation from various prominent leaders and officials from the region.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Hassan highlighted the exhaustion felt by the people of the Middle East due to centuries of wars, conflicts, and occupations. He called for efforts to alleviate the burdens on these populations, noting the region's historical significance as the cradle of civilizations, and expressing optimism for its resurgence.

Al-Hassan advocated for visionary leadership focused on the public good, emphasizing that Iraq's future battle will be one of intellectual and scientific progress rather than political strife. He indicated that Iraq is already laying the groundwork for initiatives aimed at such advancements.

He further stressed the need for developing political and knowledge-based economic frameworks and reiterated the United Nations' commitment to supporting Iraq in these endeavors. Al-Hassan also addressed the ongoing displacement of many Yazidis within Iraq, urging their return to their original areas as a crucial step in the fight against ISIS.

In his concluding remarks, Al-Hassan underscored the importance of adhering to Iraq's constitution, which supports a federal system, and called for protecting citizens' livelihoods from political conflicts.