Some are still trying to integrate this into the Syrian conflict for various reasons. Regarding our ability to stop potential cases of our airspace being breached, our capabilities are in fact limited. We do not have the necessary means of air defense that would allow us to stop such cases if they occurred. But we do believe that it is necessary to use force to stop the flow of arms. This is what causes us to work hard to fill this gap in our defense system.
Al-Monitor: There have been positive developments in US-Iranian relations. How do you view the improvement of ties between these two countries? Is it possible to expect a positive shift in these relations?
Maliki: We were one of those advocating opening channels of dialogue between the two countries. We previously hosted two rounds of dialogue [between Iran and the United States] in Baghdad, which represented the first such talks following a break in relations that lasted decades. We are optimistic about the possibility of real progress in relations between these two countries this time, because of the positive atmosphere, ripe conditions and seemingly serious intentions on the part of both countries.
We announced that we are ready to help resolve this problem and help make things better. This will achieve our national interests, in addition to what it achieves for the interests of these two nations. It also supports security and stability in this incredibly tense region. We believe that normal relations between the United States and Iran will serve the interests of stability in the region and Iraq.
Al-Monitor: Violence has been continuously increasing in Iraq since the beginning of the year. Does this mean that al-Qaeda has become more powerful than it was in the past? Has al-Qaeda managed to regain its strength?
Maliki: Yes, there has been an increase in terrorist acts that claim the lives of innocent civilians. These are blind acts that have no goal other than inflicting harm and attempting to push the country toward a sectarian war. Our forces are confronting these criminals and are involved in an all-out war with them. We are confident that we can defeat and eliminate them.
Maliki: Terrorism ‘Directly Related’ to Syria | Iraq Business News http://t.co/AhNkasexpW
Terrorism in Iraq is directly related to Al-Malik's incompetence, corruption and failure to deliver. There is only one realistic option for him, step down and let the better candidates run the country.
Do not point your one finger to others as your other four fingers are pointing at you. Do fool others, Iraq have never been ruled by democracy but a strong dictator from the time 400 B.C.