Newly elected Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi has called for all armed groups in Iraq to operate under the authority of the state, a move that comes amid ongoing U.S. pressure on Baghdad to limit the influence of Iran-aligned militias. In a statement from his media office, al-Zaidi urged these factions to function “under the umbrella of the state and its official institutions.” This appeal follows Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr’s announcement that his armed group, Saraya al-Salam, will separate from his political movement and fully integrate into state structures. Al-Sadr, who has historically opposed Tehran-backed groups and has called for their disarmament, emphasized this complete separation. Al-Zaidi’s stance reflects Washington’s demands for Iraq to rein in militias operating outside the official military command.
Why It Matters
The call for armed groups to align with the state underscores the Iraqi government’s challenge in asserting control over militias that have significant influence and power. The Trump administration’s insistence on curbing Iran-aligned factions is rooted in broader geopolitical concerns regarding Tehran’s role in Iraq and the region. Historically, these militias have played a contentious role in Iraq’s post-2003 landscape, often operating independently and challenging state authority. By pushing for their integration into state structures, the Iraqi government aims to stabilize its military command and address international concerns regarding its sovereignty and security.
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