Former Iraqi PM Nouri Al-Maliki affirmed he had no intention to withdraw from the bid for premiership, vowing to continue with his campaign despite US pressure and threats to cut support for Baghdad if he is elected.
“I have absolutely no intention of withdrawing out of respect for my country, its sovereignty, and its will. No one has the right to say whom we can or cannot vote for,” Maliki told AFP. “I will not withdraw until the end.”
“All countries can be assured that we will prevent any violation against their embassies or officially recognized interests in Iraq. We will not allow any party to target any country that maintains a diplomatic presence – such as embassies – in Iraq,” he went on to say.
Despite rejecting US pressure, Maliki said he believes “a relationship with the American side is essential for Iraq’s progress.”
US President Donald Trump has stated that if the Iraqi people choose Maliki for premiership he will cut US support to Iraq. Trump’s remarks were denounced by Al-Maliki as a blatant intervention in the sovereign issues of Iraq.
Washington has reduced its forces and concentrated troops in fewer bases within Iraq, but still maintains a significant presence under the pretext of “advising” Iraqi forces.
Source: Websites