On 15 September, Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi said weapons and decisions on peace and war would be in state hands and that Iraqi forces could protect the country’s airspace and hold its territory. Al-Ahad TV (AAH — official) carried both statements, while the Iraqi News Agency also carried the airspace-and-territory claim. Al-Ahad TV retained attribution to the prime minister rather than presenting either position as AAH’s own.
- Al-Ahad TVAAH — official15 Sept, 18:04
“The prime minister: We are working to protect Iraq’s skies, and the security forces are capable of holding the territory effectively.”
رئيس الوزراء: نعمل على حماية سماء العراق والقوات الأمنية قادرة على مسك الأراضي بصورة جيدة
- Al-Ahad TVAAH — official15 Sept, 18:05
“The prime minister: Weapons and the decision on peace and war will be in the hands of the state.”
رئيس الوزراء: السلاح وقرار السلم والحرب سيكون بيد الدولة
- وكالة الانباء العراقية (واع)15 Sept, 18:54
“Prime Minister: Our security forces are capable of protecting Iraq’s airspace and land.”
Prime Minister: Our Security Forces Are Capable to Protect Iraq's Airspace and Land