Baghdad:Deputy Prime Minister for Services Affairs Laith Al-Khazali asserted that the restriction of weapons to state control is in alignment with the position of the Religious Authority and the Iraqi Constitution. This statement underscores the commitment to liberating Iraq through resistance activities without targeting state institutions or civilians.

According to Iraqi News Agency, Al-Khazali highlighted that the engagement in political activities commenced following the withdrawal of U.S. forces in 2012. He noted that the Asa’ib Ahl Al-Haq Movement had voluntarily transitioned from military to political work by 2017, without external pressure.

Al-Khazali elaborated that the current government under Prime Minister Ali Falih Al-Zaidi is genuinely committed to the project of confining weapons to state control, unlike previous administrations. He emphasized the unanimous support from the Coordination Framework for this initiative.

Discussing relations with Syria, Al-Khazali pointed out the shared interests between Iraq and Syria, especially concerning religious shrines and economic connections. He noted that the Prime Minister’s visit to Syria was intended to strengthen these relations.

On his role in the services sector, Al-Khazali explained that his appointment was aimed at enhancing the sector, with a focus on projects like the million plots of land initiative and the strategic ring road project in Baghdad.

In terms of political alliances, Al-Khazali mentioned positive developments in relationships with Sunni forces and the Kurdistan Democratic Party, advocating for relations based on rights and obligations. He further expressed support for strengthening foreign relations that respect Iraq’s interests and the rights of its people.