Iraq militia disarmament roadmap
Iraq Sets June 2027 Deadline to Bring Armed Factions Under State Control
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Key Points
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The roadmap is to begin with a specific 90-day preparatory phase, followed by the gradual handover of weapons.
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Al-Zaidi said Iraq would prevent its territory and airspace from being used to launch attacks or threaten neighboring countries, and also rejected other countries’ territory or airspace being used to launch attacks against Iraq.
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The prime minister announced plans to purchase a complete air-defense system and proceed with legislation defining the Popular Mobilization Forces’ position within Iraq’s national security system.
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Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein said Iraq hopes to establish a bilateral defense partnership with the United States and has an upcoming meeting with U.S. Treasury and State Department officials.
Iraq's government has set June 30, 2027, as the deadline for armed factions to hand over weapons to the state, Deccan Chronicle reported. Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi announced the phased roadmap will begin October 1, following the end of the U.S.-led coalition's military mission. The plan aims to reassert state control and prevent Iran-aligned militias from destabilizing the country.
Three of seven factions have already backed the disarmament plan and some groups have begun surrendering weapons, according to i24news. However, powerful Iran-aligned factions have resisted or disputed the agreement. The Hindu notes the move follows the coalition's withdrawal, giving Iraq a chance to strengthen its national authority.
The 90-Day Roadmap Begins in October
The disarmament process starts with a 90-day preparatory phase beginning October 1, followed by gradual weapons handovers. Middle East Monitor reports the entire process must conclude by June 30, 2027. Armed factions will be integrated into Iraq's official security forces as part of the transition.
Prime Minister al-Zaidi said Iraq will prevent its territory from being used to launch attacks or threaten neighboring countries. He also rejected other nations' territory being used to attack Iraq. The plan targets both Iraqi-aligned militias and non-Iraqi armed groups operating in the country.
Three Factions Agree, Others Hold Back
Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein said negotiations are ongoing with seven armed factions. Three groups have signed onto the plan and have already begun handing over weapons. The commitment from these groups signals progress, though 24newsHD notes major Iran-backed militias have not committed.
Powerful Iran-aligned factions have either resisted the deadline or disputed claims they agreed to it. These groups fear disarmament will weaken their influence in Iraqi politics. Their cooperation remains the biggest obstacle to the plan's success by the 2027 deadline.
Iraq Seeks U.S. Defense Partnership and New Air Defenses
Iraq plans to purchase a complete air-defense system and will pass new legislation defining the Popular Mobilization Forces' role in national security. These steps aim to strengthen state capacity to defend itself independently. The moves signal Iraq wants less reliance on militia groups for protection.
Foreign Minister Hussein said Iraq hopes to establish a bilateral defense partnership with the United States. An upcoming meeting with U.S. Treasury and State Department officials will discuss deeper cooperation. The renewed relationship reflects Iraq's intent to anchor itself with a Western security partner as it consolidates state control.
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