EXCLUSIVE: Iraq on high alert amid rising threats, pledges to defend sovereignty
Shafaq News/ Iraq's armed forces are on high alert and prepared to defend the country’s sovereignty against any external threats, a military spokesperson said on Wednesday.
Major General Yahya Rasool, spokesperson for the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, told Shafaq News Agency that the prime minister issued directives during a National Security Council meeting to enhance Iraq's defense capabilities.
"The commander-in-chief [PM Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani] instructed the Air Defense Command to take all necessary measures to protect Iraq's airspace and ensure all required resources are in place to defend the nation's sovereignty," Rasool said, adding security and intelligence agencies have been tasked with continuous information gathering and analysis, providing detailed reports every 12 hours.
Rasool emphasized that Iraq's armed forces, in all their formations, are "on maximum alert and ready to counter any aggression," reaffirming the government's commitment to safeguarding the country.
"Defending Iraq is a legitimate right guaranteed by the constitution and international law," he stated.
Rasool also highlighted Iraq's diplomatic efforts, noting the government’s active participation in an emergency Arab League meeting to address Israeli threats.
"Iraq is strengthening its defense capabilities while pursuing diplomatic channels to address regional challenges," he added.
The Iraqi military readiness comes amid the increasing attacks by the Islamic Resistance in Iraq.
Israel's Maariv newspaper reported that the number of drone strikes rose from six in August to 31 in September and 90 in October. More than 65 attacks have already been recorded in November.
Last week, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar held the Iraqi government responsible for "everything happening on its territory," emphasizing that Tel Aviv has the right to “self-defense.”
Meanwhile, Iraq's Kataib Hezbollah, a key faction in the Iraqi Resistance, pledged to continue its "Operations for Gaza’s Support" despite the Lebanon ceasefire announced by US President Joe Biden on Tuesday.
