Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Ali Faleh Al-Zaidi Conducts Late-Night Visit to Air Defense Command Operations Center ••••• Prime Minister and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Ali Faleh Al-Zaidi conducted a late-night visit, from Wednesday into Thursday, to the Operations Center of the Air Defense Command to assess firsthand the status, readiness, and missions of Iraq’s air defense system in protecting Iraqi airspace. The Commander-in-Chief’s visit to the Air Defense Command headquarters came amid preparations for the next phase and efforts to assess readiness across operational sectors, as part of the implementation of the Iraqi-U.S. agreement stipulating the conclusion of the mission of the Global Coalition forces and the completion of their full withdrawal from Iraq by September 30. This underscores the importance of strengthening the capabilities of the Iraqi Armed Forces and air defense systems to assume full responsibility for protecting Iraq’s airspace and national sovereignty. The Prime Minister received a detailed briefing from the Commander of the Air Defense Command on the current status of the air defense system, coverage of operational sectors, and the strategy for developing the capabilities of Iraq’s specialized units under the 2026–2031 Air Defense Capability Development Plan. The plan aims to establish an integrated air defense system by enhancing radar detection and surveillance capabilities, weapons systems, and command and control capabilities. During his meeting with the Commander and officers of the Air Defense Command, attended by the Director of the Office of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, the Chief of Staff of the Army, and the Secretary-General of the Ministry of Defense, the Prime Minister affirmed that air defense represents the shield of Iraq’s skies and the first line of defense for its sovereignty. He stressed that building capable Armed Forces is a fundamental pillar in consolidating Iraq’s sovereignty and strengthening its ability to make independent political and military decisions. The Commander-in-Chief directed that all requirements and needs of the Air Defense Command be met, that its combat and technological capabilities be further enhanced, and that all necessary resources be provided to build an advanced system capable of protecting Iraqi airspace. He affirmed that Iraq’s skies and sovereignty are inviolable and that no party will be permitted to violate its airspace or threaten its security. The Prime Minister stressed that while Iraq is working to safeguard its national security and sovereignty, it will not allow its territory or airspace to be used as a launching point for any attack against neighboring countries. He affirmed that Iraq’s role contributes to strengthening security and stability in the region and that its Armed Forces serve as a bulwark protecting Iraq, its sovereignty, and its national decision-making. ••••• Media Office of the Prime Minister August 13, 2026