House Speaker Affirms: Iraq's Sovereignty Paramount, No Force Above Law or National Decision

House Speaker Mohammed al-Halbousi affirmed on Wednesday that Iraq's sovereignty is paramount, stressing the rejection of any weapons outside the framework of the law, any force beyond state institutions, or any decision that does not align with the national will. This came in a statement on the occasion of National Sovereignty Day, in which he extended his congratulations to the Iraqi people, recalling the importance of the state, the sanctity of the homeland, and the independence of Iraqi decision-making on this occasion. Al-Halbousi clarified that Iraq's sovereignty is not merely a slogan for occasions or a position open to interpretation or compromise; rather, it is a fixed right, a constitutional and national responsibility, and a trust placed upon all state institutions and national forces. He added that Iraq is a sovereign state whose decisions are made by the will of its people, and on its land, only the authority of the state and law apply. He noted that Iraq will not be an arena for settling conflicts nor a passage for aggression against others, affirming that its lands, airspace, or resources will not be subject to interference or transgression by any party. The Speaker emphasized that protecting the country's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the independence of its national decision is not subject to courtesy or bargaining. He stated that Iraq's strength stems from the strength of its state, respect for its constitution, the prestige of its institutions, and the rule of law over everyone without exception. He pointed out that Iraqis have made immense sacrifices for a free and independent homeland, and it is everyone's duty to preserve these sacrifices through a strong state that safeguards the dignity of its citizens, protects its borders and interests, and builds its relations with other countries on the basis of mutual respect and national interest. Al-Halbousi reiterated that Iraq's sovereignty is a top priority, its decision is independent, its land is unified, and the interest of its people is the compass that must take precedence over all other interests and considerations. He also extended a message of appreciation to friendly nations that supported Iraq in its war against terrorism. He clarified that the end of the international coalition's missions does not signify the end of cooperation relations but represents a transition to a new phase based on coordination, mutual respect, and shared interests, thereby preserving Iraq's sovereignty and the independence of its national decision. Al-Halbousi concluded his statement by indicating that state sovereignty and the rule of law are the foundation for building a strong and stable Iraq. He reaffirmed that there are no weapons outside the framework of the law, no force that oversteps state institutions, and no decision that supersedes the national decision, in adherence to constitutional provisions, solidifying the state's prestige, and protecting Iraq's security, stability, and the interests of its people.