Iraq has announced a September 30 deadline for pro-Iran armed groups to surrender their weapons, marking a significant step in Baghdad’s efforts to strengthen state authority and address mounting pressure from Washington. The move comes ahead of Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi’s upcoming visit to the United States, where security cooperation and regional stability are expected to dominate discussions.
Many of the factions involved operate within the state-backed Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), a powerful umbrella organization formed to combat ISIS but which includes groups maintaining close ties to Iran. Some of these militias reportedly targeted US facilities in Iraq during the early stages of the recent US-Israel conflict with Iran, increasing concerns over Iraq’s role in broader regional tensions.
The government’s decision reflects a delicate balancing act between preserving domestic stability, managing relations with Tehran, and maintaining strategic ties with Washington. Analysts say successful implementation of the disarmament plan could reshape Iraq’s security landscape, while resistance from armed factions may test the authority of the new administration.
