Iraq faces global pressure to disarm armed groups

Efforts to disarm non-state actors in Iraq have gained momentum as international and regional players push for a Middle East free from armed groups outside state control. UN Special Representative Mohammed al-Hassan’s engagements with Najaf’s religious authority and Tehran underscore the urgency of resolving this contentious issue.

Security expert Dr. Alaa Al-Nashua warned that the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) and factions loyal to Iran threaten Iraq’s national security and complicate its regional and global relations. He stated, “The PMF poses challenges akin to a declaration of war, making Iraq a focal point in the new Middle East vision aimed at stability.”

Dr. Ahmed Al-Sharifi clarified distinctions between the PMF and armed factions. “The Americans demand the dissolution of factions, not the PMF, which they view as a supportive force. Reforms are expected to reorganize the PMF and limit its ties to political entities,” he explained.

Religious authority Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani reportedly supports restricting arms to state control. Al-Sharifi emphasized, “The UN representative’s consultations with Najaf confirm this stance, pressing for the disarmament of factions under the PMF’s umbrella.”

Al-Sudani’s government is under pressure to silence factions involved in regional conflicts. Despite commitments to the U.S. to restrict faction activities, recent Gaza events have emboldened them to operate beyond his control. Al-Sharifi noted, “Al-Sudani must either disarm these factions or face internal and external crises.”

Prime Minister Al-Sudani’s diplomatic efforts with Saudi Arabia and Jordan to influence U.S. demands have so far failed. Meanwhile, Iran has distanced itself from the factions, claiming they act independently, leaving Iraq to address the issue alone.

Political researcher Ramadan Al-Badran highlighted Iraq’s entanglement in regional tensions, stating, “Iraq is deeply affected by developments in Syria and the activities of armed groups. Stability in the Middle East hinges on confining military roles to state-controlled entities.”

With mounting international scrutiny, Iraq faces a critical juncture: disarm factions to align with global security goals or risk further instability and conflict.