Basra:Basra Governor Asaad Al-Eidani has reiterated that his warning against entering the oil fields is aimed at ensuring the safety of protesters. He clarified that the intention was not to restrict their demands but to prevent potential legal and security issues that could arise from such actions.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Eidani highlighted in an audio recording that entering the oil fields could lead to arrest warrants for some protesters and possibly result in charges under Article Four of the Anti-Terrorism Law. He emphasized his lack of authority to influence such legal procedures and warned of the impact these actions could have on service projects in the affected areas.

The governor referenced past incidents in 2018 that led to casualties, including the death of a citizen named Saad, underscoring that any loss of life is a tragedy for the community. Al-Eidani expressed his respect for the people involved in the demonstrations and issued an apology if his statements were misunderstood, while maintaining the importance of his warnings.

Regarding ongoing demonstrations in the Al-Sadiq district, Al-Eidani affirmed the legitimacy of citizens’ rights to protest and demand services. He noted that the local government has completed several projects, such as wastewater treatment and infrastructure improvements, despite financial challenges. However, federal projects have been stalled due to funding issues.

The governor urged political parties and figures to assist in securing funds from border crossings and petrodollars, which have not been disbursed for over a year. He called on supporters of the demonstrations to help demand these financial rights and expressed the local government’s readiness to cooperate and be accountable.

Al-Eidani concluded by affirming the demonstrators’ rights, encouraging the people of Basra to persist in their demands while cautioning against exploitation by external parties. He emphasized that the local government considers all residents as partners in responsibility, aiming to meet their needs and improve services.