Baghdad-INA
The head of the Popular Mobilization Forces, Faleh Al-Fayyadh, said on Sunday that the force operates under the authority of the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, opposes sectarianism and stands with all Iraqis, adding that the foresight of The Supreme Religious Authority provided the initial impetus for Iraq’s defense.
Speaking at the official ceremony marking the 12th anniversary of the establishment of the Popular Mobilization Forces, Al-Fayyadh said he was honored to commemorate those who responded to the religious Fatwa issued by The Supreme Religious Authority and rose to defend Iraq.
He said the conduct of foreign forces in the country had contributed to numerous challenges and difficulties, adding that Iraqi citizens mobilized against Islamic State militants in response to the call of the supreme religious authority to defend the country.
Al-Fayyadh said the religious authority’s foresight was the first spark in Iraq’s defense and that the Popular Mobilization Forces were established to expose what he described as the illusion of ISIS terrorists groups. He added that the force would remain a guarantor of stability.
“The Popular Mobilization Forces will remain faithful to their duty and trust. They are a force operating under the command of the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, against sectarianism and with all Iraqis,” he said.
He affirmed the force’s commitment to all applicable laws and called on Prime Minister and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Ali Al-Zaidi to provide suitable camps for PMF personnel to facilitate their deployment outside cities.
Al-Fayyadh said Iraq overcame the era of terrorism represented by ISIS and al-Qaeda through the sacrifices and heroism of its citizens, adding that the PMF succeeded in defeating ISIS and securing victory over terrorism in a battle that major international powers had failed to resolve.
He said Iraq now enjoys security and stability and possesses the foundations of strength thanks to the sacrifices made by PMF members and other security forces.
Al-Fayyadh also praised Al-Zaidi’s efforts to advance a new phase focused on reconstruction, stability and strengthening state institutions.
He stressed that the PMF would continue consolidating its identity as an official force subordinate to the commander-in-chief and dedicated to defending Iraq, its sovereignty and its state institutions.
Concluding his remarks, Al-Fayyadh said the sacrifices of the late Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis and Iranian General Qassem Soleimani continue to inspire fighters to follow their path and remain committed to their legacy.
