Baghdad: The Security Media Cell outlined on Friday the tasks of the Committee to Combat Sectarian Discourse: The Security Media Cell, under the leadership of Lieutenant General Saad Maan, announced the formation and objectives of a new committee dedicated to monitoring hate speech and publications of an ethnic and sectarian nature. This initiative comes at the directive of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces and includes collaboration with technical bodies from the Ministry of Interior, intelligence services, National Security, and the National Security Advisory, in coordination with the judiciary.

According to Iraqi News Agency, Lieutenant General Saad Maan emphasized the critical timing of this committee’s formation, highlighting its roles and processes. The committee’s operations will be carried out on three levels, starting with monitoring. This stage involves two methods: direct monitoring by the committee and contributions from citizens. A platform will be established to empower citizens to report publications, enabling the committee to take appropriate actions.

Lieutenant General Maan elaborated that the monitoring process will involve analysis and study, with cases being referred to judicial authorities to determine applicable legal actions. Furthermore, the committee is committed to education and awareness, urging the public to steer clear of hate speech and sectarian discourse.

He also conveyed a strong message to citizens, advising them not to be swayed by sectarian rhetoric masked as political agendas, nor to become instruments for spreading rumors or incitement. Emphasizing the importance of citizen involvement, Maan stated that the success of this initiative largely depends on the public and, subsequently, the media.

Maan confirmed that the committee has already convened and started its work, expressing hope for active citizen participation and media support in combating sectarian discourse.