Abadi orders Iraqi policemen to stay alert to face regional threats
An Iraqi solider waves the “V” victory sign following a great triumph over the Islamic State group
Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) – Outgoing Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi ordered on Wednesday Iraqi policemen to remain on full alert to deal with serious challenges, which are still endangering the region.
During a visit to the headquarters of the Iraqi federal police on Wednesday, Abadi said that “the security situation in the Middle East region is still unstable, making it necessary for our security forces to be on high alert.”
He further praised great sacrifices made by police forces in the fight against Islamic State, saying that the country’s great triumph over terrorism would not be achieved without strong determination, unity and preparedness shown by policemen.
Abadi, however, warned that the country still has a long way to go when it comes to reinforcing its own security.
The Islamic State group appeared on the international scene in 2014 when it seized large swathes of territory in Iraq and Syria, declaring the establishment of an Islamic “caliphate” from Mosul city.
Later on, the group has become notorious for its brutality, including mass killings, abductions and beheadings, prompting the U.S. to lead an international coalition to destroy it.