Iraq Investigates "Violation of the American Flag" on "Sovereignty Day"

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Iraqi Prime Minister and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Ali Falah Al-Zaydi ordered on Sunday the formation of an investigative committee to look into the circumstances of what he described as a "violation" against the United States flag during one of the parades accompanying the "Sovereignty Day" events.

According to a statement from the spokesperson for the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Sabah Al-Naaman, Al-Zaydi condemned the incident, emphasizing the necessity of adhering to laws and diplomatic norms. He also directed that legal actions be taken against the violators and that the investigation be completed and its results submitted "as soon as possible."

The government move came after images and videos circulated showing vehicles driving over a large American flag laid out on one of the streets during events held in Baghdad. Media outlets also published photos from the French Press Agency that they claimed showed vehicles, including military vehicles, driving over the flags of the United States and Israel during a ceremony held last Thursday.

The scenes drew criticism from U.S. Republican Congressman Joe Wilson, who posted images of the incident on the platform "X" and accused elements of the Popular Mobilization Forces of disrespecting the American flag, before directly criticizing the Iraqi government regarding its relationship with Iran.

The Iraqi statement did not specify the party or individuals responsible for the incident, merely indicating that it occurred during "one of the parades," while it is expected that the investigation committee will determine the circumstances and those responsible for it.

The incident comes after Iraqi celebrations marking the end of the international coalition's mission to combat ISIS in the country. Al-Zaydi had announced that October 1 marks the beginning of a new phase for Iraq, affirming that the state will take responsibility for protecting sovereignty and that security and military decisions will be within its official institutions.

This was preceded by a government directive issued on September 23 to ministries, provinces, and entities not affiliated with the ministry to organize official and popular events on the occasion of "Iraqi Sovereignty Day," which included gatherings in government institutions, commemorating the victims, and holding local activities related to the occasion.

The opening of the investigation and the Prime Minister's condemnation of the incident indicate Baghdad's effort to separate the celebration of the end of the coalition's mission from any actions that may affect American symbols, at a time when the government emphasizes its direction towards international relations based on mutual interests and respect.