Ammar al-Hakim, leader of the National Wisdom Movement, emphasized his opposition to external interference in Iraqi affairs, stating that the country does not take sides in the region's tensions under any circumstances.

Delivering a speech on the 17th anniversary of the passing of Abdul Aziz al-Hakim, Ammar al-Hakim noted that Iraq is at "a crossroads” and warned of the region's conflicts, saying that any war or turmoil will engulf the entire region.

"Either we rise to the level of the sacrifices made for this country, or we allow the stagnation and division that will rob us of our future, or we preserve the national resolve, as it was protected yesterday by the blood of the martyrs, or we give in to pressure and conflict. Or we transform our economy into a genuine productive force, or we make it a captive to change and expectations,” he stressed.

Iraq Will Not Return to Weakness, Al-Hakim Says

He reiterated that they will not allow the country to “return to a period of weakness."
Al-Hakim further underlined that they will prevent “its sovereignty from being weakened and its state subjugated for the sake of narrow interests.”

“We will continue to take steps with confidence,” he added.

Movement Leader Highlights Importance of Unity

The leader of the National Wisdom Movement further highlighted the importance of unity, reaffirming their commitment to the Marja’s decisions for the country and stating that it has contributed to keeping Iraq out of regional conflicts.

"The love for Iraq taught us that men are not tested in happiness but are recognized in adversity; a nation is not measured by its territory but by the will of its people,” he said.

Iraq Navigates Challenges

Al-Hakim’s remarks come amid escalating regional tensions between the United States and Iran, as well as Washington's stance on the prime ministerial candidate.

Following Nouri al-Maliki, head of the State of Law Coalition, declaring his candidacy, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that Washington does not support him and characterized his bid as "a very bad choice." In response, al-Maliki reiterated his intention to withdraw from the race on several occasions.

Nonetheless, he emphasized yesterday that Iraq remains committed to a democratic path, welcoming strong international partnerships with the United States and Europe to bolster government institutions and enhance the welfare of the Iraqi people.

Iraq Encourages Diplomatic Efforts in U.S.-Iran Tensions

Meanwhile, against the backdrop of increased U.S.-Iran tensions, Iraq remains supportive of diplomatic initiatives and ongoing negotiations between the two nations, highlighting the need for regional stability and cautioning against further escalation.

Today, Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein met with U.S. Special Envoy to Syria Tom Barrack in Baghdad. Hussein underscored Iraq's support for the peaceful approach and strongly endorsed the upcoming negotiation round scheduled to be held in Geneva, Switzerland, next Thursday.