Speaking after the visit, Abdul Mehdi stated that Iranian-backed Hashd al-Shaabi militia was a part of Iraqi armed forces, ANF reported.

The Prime Minister continued; “We appreciate the historic role of the fatwas issued by the religious authority regarding the mobilization of Iraqi population and armed forces. The assistance provided by Hashd al-Shaabi, Peshmerga and other armed forces has led to a victory in the fight against IS.”

Calling attention to the discussions on Hashd al-Shaabi, the PM pointed out that the militia was a part of Iraq’s armed forces and that all these forces served under the same order.

Abdul Mahdi remarked that Iraq has achieved great successes in the fight against IS and Al-Qaeda, adding that the struggle continues against the remnants of these groups. The PM called for support from friendly states in the anti-IS fight.

Reporter’s code: 50101