Iraq appears to delay militia disarmament as Iran-backed factions pressure Baghdad - analysis
Now Iraq is indicating that it actually wants to wait until the US leaves, to disarm the militias. This bait and switch on timing shows how Iraq will slow play its obligations.
Iraq's new Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi was initially tasked with curbing the influence of Iranian-backed militias. These groups have been involved in numerous attacks against US forces, journalists, civilians, and diplomatic missions. Many of these militias are sanctioned by the United States as terrorist organizations.
Iraq had initially aimed to complete the disarmament process by September 30, coinciding with the expected withdrawal of US troops. However, Iraq is now reportedly delaying the disarmament until after the US departure. The national security advisor, Qasim al-Araji, stated that the process would begin gradually following the US exit, emphasizing a "strategic Iraqi decision" and the use of dialogue rather than force.
The delay in disarming the militias has raised concerns, as it may signal a shift in Iraq's commitment to the disarmament process. Iran has been actively involved in showcasing its power in Baghdad, with high-ranking officials like Iran's IRGC Quds Force head Esmail Qaani and the speaker of parliament visiting the country. This move has been seen as Iran attempting to exert influence over Iraq's security situation.
Despite the delays, Iraq's government has maintained that all political forces agree on the need to control weapons exclusively by the state. The decision to disengage from militias is now seen as being exclusively in the hands of the Iraqi state.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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