Hakim: Addressing Weapons Outside State Control Is a Constitutional Obligation and a National Interest

Ammar al-Hakim, head of the National State Forces Alliance, said on Sunday that addressing the issue of weapons outside state control is a constitutional obligation and a matter of national interest for Iraq.

According to a statement issued by his office, al-Hakim discussed with Stephen Wigen, the Chargé d’Affaires of the US Embassy in Baghdad, the latest political developments in Iraq and the region, as well as ways to strengthen bilateral relations between Baghdad and Washington.

Al-Hakim stressed the need to address the weapons issue through an Iraqi approach based on national interests, with mechanisms and timelines determined by Iraqi authorities. He also commended the efforts that contributed to liberating Iraqi territory and restoring state authority.

Regarding Iraq’s economy, al-Hakim called for diversifying the national economy and expanding oil export channels, while increasing production in line with the country’s resources and population. He also highlighted the damage Iraq has suffered as a result of regional crises and the fight against terrorism.

He further urged an end to regional escalation and called for dialogue and mutual understanding to restore stability and peace.