Baghdad: Legal Expert Salem Hawas stated that the Supreme Judicial Council's decision to reprimand the head of the Council President's office reflects the judiciary's firm commitment to safeguarding freedom of expression as a constitutional right that must not be infringed. According to National Iraqi News Agency, in a press statement on Friday, Hawas explained that the office director's interpretation in drafting the letter titled 'Legal Procedures Regarding Statements Calling for the Overthrow of the Political System' led to a misunderstanding that does not align with the judiciary's stance in support of public freedoms. He emphasized that the reprimand sends a clear message that the judiciary will not allow any action that could be interpreted as restricting the media or protecting any group, party, or entity. Hawas stressed that the Council's position serves as a safety valve to prevent any path that might lead to a new dictatorship, noting that respecting opposing opinions, even harsh ones, is essentia l for stability. He added that the governing principle remains that freedom of expression is a red line, and no party, entity, or authority stands above the constitution and the law.