Iraq Sets Sept 30 Deadline for Pro-Iran Armed Groups to Disarm

BAGHDAD – (Web Desk) : Iraq has given pro-Iran armed groups until September 30 to surrender their weapons, marking a major step toward strengthening state control over security as the US-led anti-Islamic State coalition prepares to end its mission in the country.

Government spokesman Haidar al-Aboudi announced on Monday that all armed factions had been informed of the deadline, warning that any weapons remaining outside state authority after September 30 would face legal action.

The move comes ahead of Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi’s expected visit to the United States, where Washington has been urging Baghdad to ensure Iran-backed militias are disarmed.

Speaking to European ambassadors, Zaidi reiterated that limiting the possession of weapons to the state is a key government policy and said the administration remains committed to implementing it alongside the coalition’s scheduled withdrawal.

Several Iran-backed armed groups have indicated their willingness to cooperate with the government’s plan, while others continue to reject disarmament under what they describe as US pressure.

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Iraq has long balanced relations between the United States and Iran, both key allies but regional rivals, as Baghdad seeks to maintain stability while asserting full state control over armed forces.