Iraqi PM says country will declare full sovereignty on September 30

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Falih al-Ali al-Zaidi said on Monday that Iraqis will declare full sovereignty over all Iraqi territory on September 30. Speaking at a Mawlid celebration hosted by Baghdad's Sunni Endowment Office, Zaidi extended greetings to the Iraqi people and the broader Islamic nation on the occasion, with the president, parliament speaker and head of the Supreme Judicial Council also in attendance. Zaidi outlined his government's program, saying it provides a clear roadmap for building a just state, combating corruption and strengthening a productive work environment. He added that security institutions operating within the constitutional framework are being carefully established, and that internal peace and social cohesion will be preserved. The prime minister said Iraq will not serve as a base from which to harm others, and thanked religious authorities and all religious institutions for their guidance in safeguarding the country's security. He also commented on regional developments, noting that ongoing tensions in the region have produced disagreements among Islamic countries.