PM: Placing Iraq's supreme national interest above all else
PM Muhammed S. Al-Sudani affirmed on Tuesday, working with a vision that Placing Iraq's supreme national interest above all else, noting that Iraq possesses an air force comparable to that received by pilots in developed countries.
PM and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Al-Sudani, attended the 'Ur 2' joint air exercise at Balad Air Base (Martyr Brigadier General Ali Fleihe Base), held in celebration of the 94th anniversary of the founding of the Iraqi Air Force, according to a statement by the PM's Media Office - received by the Iraqi News Agency - INA.
The event was attended by the Minister of Defense, senior military leaders, and representatives from allied and partner air forces.
The Prime Minister observed the live execution of the exercise, which featured flyovers by Iraqi squadrons and participating international aircraft. The exercise included a simulated target-clearing operation.
He toured the Iraqi aircraft ground exhibition and witnessed a parachute drop performed by participating units.
In a speech delivered on the occasion, the Commander-in-Chief extended his "congratulations to the leadership, officers, and personnel of the Iraqi Air Force on the anniversary of its establishment—April 22, 1932—when Iraq's first combat squadron took flight under the command of five pioneering Iraqi pilots," emphasizing that the Iraqi Air Force remains a foundational pillar of national sovereignty and a key component of the country's military strength—positioning Iraq's armed forces among the most capable in the region in terms of doctrine, professionalism, and advanced capabilities."
Al-Sudani highlighted "the significance of the international strategic air exercise 'Ur 2,' conducted in cooperation with the air forces of the United States, Italy, France, and Jordan, and with the participation of Iraq's Special Forces Command," noting that "this exercise reflects Iraq's growing defense partnerships, which the government has worked to strengthen through multiple agreements with allied and friendly nations."
He paid tribute to "the Iraqi Air Force for its courageous role in defending the country in the post-dictatorship era and its decisive contributions to the fight against terrorism," praising "the bravery and sacrifices of Iraqi airmen in the liberation battles against Daesh and their continued efforts in pursuing terrorist remnants across Iraq's remote regions."
The statement highlighted remarks made by PM Al-Sudani, saying: "Today we commemorate the founding of the Iraqi Air Force—an institution whose history is deeply intertwined with that of the modern Iraqi state. The Air Force, like other branches of our military, was weakened by reckless wars under the former dictatorship, losing many of its most skilled and honorable officers. Brave and patriotic Air Force commanders who stood against tyranny were subjected to execution, persecution, and exclusion. Our government has made the development of all branches of the armed forces a top priority—focusing on rebuilding the air force. We are committed to rebuilding the Iraqi Air Force on modern scientific foundations, aligned with global standards and the best practices of advanced air forces. Strengthening military capabilities is a strategic imperative, and we are pursuing diversified sources for arming our air force."
"Today, Iraqi pilots fly some of the most advanced aircraft in the world and receive training at leading international military academies. Sustained support has led to the emergence of a capable, professional, and nationally proud air force entrusted with vital defense missions. Iraq continues to foster constructive cooperation and operational coordination with regional partners in the fight against terrorism. We act with a clear vision—placing Iraq's supreme national interest above all else, avoiding emotional or reactionary decisions. We have pledged to remain firmly committed to the principle of Iraq first—regardless of the cost or the sacrifices it may demand," he included in the statement.
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