Iraq "must have a say in the future presence of these forces and we urge that this be reflected in the new resolution," Zebari told the council, adding that US-led troops must stay after the June 30 handover of power.

"Any premature departure of international troops would lead to chaos and the real possibility of civil war in Iraq," he said.

"The continued presence of the multinational force will help preserve Iraq's unity, prevent regional intervention in our affairs and protect our borders at this critical stage of our reconstruction," he said.

"Iraqi forces must be under Iraqi command but operate in liaison and partnership with the multinational force," he said.

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