Iraqi PM: We reject presence of any foreign military bases on our territory

SANAA, Feb. 13 (YPA) – Iraqi Prime Minister Adel Abdul-Mahdi confirmed his country’s refusal to accept any foreign bases on Iraqi soil, stressing the independence of the Iraqi decision in this matter away from any influence or dictates.

“Iraq does not accept any foreign bases on its territory and the task of US forces is to fight the terrorists and the training needed by the Iraqi forces,” Abdul-Mahdi said during a meeting with US Defense Secretary Patrick Chanahan in Baghdad.

Abdul Mahdi, commander-in-chief of the armed forces, announced on Tuesday the implementation of pre-emptive operations to abort any attempt to advance ISIS group towards Iraq.

“There will not be a chance for terrorism to relocate between the two provinces of Kirkuk,” the prime minister said in a speech at the weekly Iraqi government conference.

On Tuesday, the acting US defense secretary arrived in Baghdad on an unannounced Pentagon visit to discuss the withdrawal of US troops from Syria as well as the future of US forces in Iraq.

Sameera Hassn