Speaking on the last day of the Middle East Peace and Security Forum (MEPS), Al-Halbousi stated that Iraq’s new cabinet needs to improve the country's economy, provide better public services, and take actual measures into improving people’s livelihoods.

MEPS started days ago at the American University of Kurdistan in Duhok, amid ongoing and unprecedented global challenges, with the participation of experts, leaders and decision-makers.

Halbousi discussed how Iraq’s geographical location exposes the country to external geopolitical pressures.

He also warned that terror threats may reemerge at the intersection linking these international pressures and local grievances towards Iraq’s government, calling on all relevant parties, especially the security agencies, should take strict measures to confront those fomenting terror.

It broached the topics of climate change, war in Ukraine, food insecurity, the global energy crisis, and instability in the MENA region.

In August, Iraqi protests over reform and the gridlocked negotiations for forming a new government became violent, with 12 people killed and more than 270 injured.

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