Baghdad: Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani chaired the ninth regular session of the Cabinet, where discussions focused on the overall situation in the country. The session involved reviewing the agenda items and making necessary decisions.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Prime Minister’s Media Office released a statement highlighting the session’s key points. Al-Sudani addressed the latest regional developments, reiterating that the state alone has the authority to decide on war and peace. He emphasized the government’s determination to prevent Iraq from being drawn into conflicts and underscored the need to achieve the supreme interests of the Iraqi people.

The Prime Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding Iraq’s sovereignty, airspace, and territorial waters. He assured that the Iraqi armed forces are dedicated to their legal responsibilities, including the protection of public and private property, as well as foreign missions and embassies.

Al-Sudani stressed the importance of Iraq’s relations with the regional and international community. As Iraq holds the presidency of the Arab Summit, the government aims to coordinate positions to promote stability and prevent further violence. He also called for unity among national political forces to combat rumors and directed ministries to secure food security and essential services while addressing any attempts to exploit the current situation for price manipulation.

The Council reviewed various issues and authorized the Ministry of Oil to tackle the anticipated crisis in crude oil and petroleum product exports due to the Strait of Hormuz’s closure. Recommendations from the Ministerial Council for the Economy were approved to amend fees and charges. A committee was formed to study investment and partnership regulations between centrally funded entities and the private sector.

In terms of project guarantees, the Council amended a resolution to prevent the renewal of performance guarantees for contracts where outstanding receivables match or exceed the guarantee’s value. Contracting entities will retain these funds unless the guarantee is renewed based on remaining amounts.

The Cabinet approved the inclusion of the Federal Board of Supreme Audit in committees formed by decrees and decisions from the Ministerial Council for the Economy. Additionally, plans to host the 2026 Arab Entrepreneurship Summit in Baghdad were confirmed, with a preparatory committee established to organize the event.

In gas investment, the Cabinet extended the financial closure period for the Bin Omar gas project until January 2027, due to land allocation delays. The session concluded with the Cabinet making several necessary decisions on various topics.