“In light of the ongoing conflict in Gaza and other areas of armed conflict, the Middle East is currently facing a crucial turning point, with Iraq being no exception,” stated Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, the United Nations’ Special Representative, urging for caution and moderation.

Given the multitude of challenges facing Iraq, it is imperative that all attacks come to a halt.

‘Enabling environment’ crucial 

According to Ms. Hennis-Plasschaert, it is crucial for Iraq to maintain a conducive atmosphere in order to sustain its stability. This entails practicing restraint from all parties involved.

She stated that it is essential for both Iraq’s armed groups and neighboring countries to exercise caution in order to achieve peace.

The representative remembered stating multiple times that using strikes as a means of communication only leads to dangerously increased tensions, harm or death to individuals, and destruction of property.

Prioritize safeguarding Iraq 

As an illustration, she cited the 28 January assault that claimed the lives of three American soldiers and left several more wounded, as well as the subsequent retaliatory attacks.

Instead of displaying strength, the focus should be on protecting Iraq from getting involved in a larger conflict. The speaker mentioned that Iran has recently launched a lethal missile strike on Erbil, and Turkish military actions are ongoing in the northern region.

Regarding “the incendiary potential of retaliatory strikes”, she welcomed the recent launch of talks between US and Iraqi military officials, noting that “the setting of joint objectives could only be a positive development amid rising tensions.”

Successes and challenges 

Ms. Hennis-Plasschaert also shared updates on progress in Iraq. In December of last year, the country held its first local elections in ten years, including the first vote in the Kirkuk governorate since 2005.

“The electoral procedure was conducted in a mostly peaceful and proficient manner, representing a significant step towards breaking the pattern of dysfunction in previous cycles. We are optimistic that the revival of local representative bodies, which have been inactive since 2019, will serve as another important advancement,” she stated.

Despite progress, there are still issues that need to be addressed for upcoming elections, such as increasing voter participation and motivating eligible individuals to register, which will require more effort in gaining public confidence.

Banking and buildings 

The Council was informed of additional progress, including the Iraqi Government’s initiatives to bolster the finance and banking industries. Ongoing ambitious constructions, such as large-scale housing complexes, are also being reported, along with a pledge to construct one thousand new schools by the year’s end.

However, Iraq is confronted with challenges, such as “prevalent sentiments of being left out and marginalized” that frequently result in repetitive patterns of violence.

The parliamentary elections in the self-governing Kurdistan area have been delayed multiple times since October 2022, and a new date has yet to be determined. Additionally, there continues to be disputes between Baghdad and Erbil regarding financial and budget matters.

Closing all camps 

In terms of other issues, she stated that the Council of Ministers in Iraq has designated July 30th as the deadline for the closure of all displacement camps in the country, including those in the Kurdistan region. Some of these camps are currently housing individuals with suspected connections to ISIL.

The UN has expressed approval for the decision, but has emphasized the need for additional plans to help those who have been displaced and are not living in camps. They also stress the importance of ensuring that all returns are secure, voluntary, respectful, and inclusive.

Ms. Hennis-Plasschaert ended her presentation by mentioning that this may be her final address to the Council as she is set to step down in May after a five-year tenure.

She hoped that one day, the true Iraq, a nation with a diverse culture and abundant opportunities, would be recognized by people from all over the world.

Source: news.un.org