President Rashid: Iraq Secure, Stable and Looking to the Future

Iraq 09:42 AM - 2025-10-02

Iraqi President, Dr Abdullatif Jamal Rashid.

President Abdullatif Jamal Rashid outlined Iraq’s priorities and challenges in an exclusive interview with CBS News, addressing issues ranging from water scarcity and regional security to international relations and economic development.

Water Security

President Rashid stressed that Iraq does not always receive its rightful share of water from the Tigris, Euphrates, and their tributaries. He emphasised that if neighbouring countries provided Iraq with its fair quota, the country would not face shortages. President Rashid also called for improved water management, greater use of dams and reservoirs, and stronger bilateral agreements.

Security and Stability

President Rashid declared that Iraq today is secure and stable across all cities and regions, highlighting the growing influx of tourists. President Rashid noted that ISIS no longer poses a threat inside Iraq, though vigilance remains essential to monitor extremist activity both domestically and regionally.

Legacy of Conflict

Reflecting on Iraq’s modern history, President Rashid said the former dictatorship had dragged the country into destructive wars—including conflicts with neighbouring states and the invasion of Kuwait—that left profound damage on every aspect of life. Since the dictatorship’s fall, President Rashid said Iraq has confronted and defeated terrorism with international support, redirecting its focus towards economic development, public services, and infrastructure.

Foreign Forces and Sovereignty

President Rashid underlined that the question of U.S. forces in Iraq is a matter for the government and Parliament, with talks ongoing with Washington. President Rashid reiterated Iraq’s aspiration to see all foreign troops depart, stressing that the country’s security institutions are now capable of defending against terrorist threats.

International and Regional Affairs

President Rashid criticised the performance of multinational organisations, particularly the United Nations, urging reforms to bring them in line with contemporary global realities. President Rashid also expressed hope that U.S. President Donald Trump would deliver on his pledge to end wars worldwide.

On regional conflicts, President Rashid described the war in Gaza as “catastrophic,” calling for an immediate ceasefire, urgent humanitarian relief, and the implementation of UN resolutions. President Rashid also called for an end to the Russia–Ukraine war, insisting that armed conflict cannot resolve disputes between states.

Domestic Politics and Elections

Looking ahead to Iraq’s upcoming parliamentary elections, President Rashid expressed confidence they would be peaceful and democratic, supported by robust measures to guarantee transparency and fairness.

Relations with Neighbours and Allies

President Rashid affirmed Iraq’s strong bilateral ties with Iran, with whom it shares a 1,400-kilometre border, and welcomed the Kurdistan Workers’ Party’s (PKK) decision to disarm, expressing hope for a peaceful agreement with Türkiye. President Rashid also highlighted Iraq’s positive relations with the United States and stressed the importance of expanding trade partnerships in energy, infrastructure, transportation, bridges, and agriculture.

Global Challenge of Water Scarcity

Finally, President Rashid underscored that water scarcity is not unique to Iraq but a global challenge affecting the Middle East, Africa, the Far East, and parts of Europe. President Rashid urged coordinated international action, alongside Iraq’s own efforts to improve water harvesting and management.



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