UN Praises Iraq’s Progress, Supports Peace & Elections

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

Photo: WAM

The top United Nations (UN) official in Iraq, Mohamed Al Hassan, spoke at the UN Security Council on Tuesday. He shared his strong belief in the power and strength of the Iraqi people and the efforts of their leaders.

He said, “Iraq is a country with a deep history and great strength. Iraqis can continue to move forward if they work together. They can build a stable and successful future where everyone’s rights are respected.”

Mr. Hassan is also the head of the UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI). He explained that the mission is continuing with its plan to slowly reduce its work in Iraq. This transition is happening step-by-step and with the full support of the Iraqi government. UNAMI offices in cities like Mosul and Kirkuk have already closed, and the number of staff is being reduced. However, this is being done carefully so that important work still continues. He also said that the entire UN is facing financial difficulties right now, which makes this process even more challenging.

Mr. Hassan praised the Iraqi government for giving humanitarian aid to people in Gaza, Lebanon, Yemen, and Syria. He also supported Iraq’s role in helping start a new peace process between Türkiye and the Kurdistan Workers' Party (KPP), a group involved in long-standing conflict.

He said Iraq is preparing well for the upcoming parliamentary elections, which are planned for 11 November. The Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC) is making good progress, and the UN is helping with technical support. Most voters—about three-quarters—have already completed the required biometric registration, and voter registration will soon be complete. But there are still some issues and planning challenges to solve.

Finally, Mr. Hassan promised that the UN will continue helping Iraq. “We believe in this country, its people, and their abilities,” he said.