Iranian-backed militias may be weighing disarmament amid Iraq political shift - Seth J. Frantzman

 

by Seth J. Frantzman

US Envoy to Iraq, Mark Savaya, posted on X overnight between December 21 and 22 that the steps being taken by “armed groups” in Iraq are “welcome and encouraging.”

 

Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi attends a military parade for the members of Iraqi Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) marking its eighth anniversary, in Diyala province, Iraq July 23, 2022.

(photo credit: IRAQI PRIME MINISTER MEDIA OFFICE/HANDOUT VIA REUTERS)

 

The Iranian-backed militias in Iraq are increasingly in the spotlight as Iraq moves toward selecting a new prime minister, with the militias also being a center of focus in the US.

US Envoy to Iraq, Mark Savaya, posted on X overnight between December 21 and 22 that the steps being taken by “armed groups” in Iraq are “welcome and encouraging.”

He didn’t mention Iran or call the groups “militias,” but his post was clearly referring to recent reports that various groups within the Popular Mobilization Forces are considering disarming or at least placing their arms in the hands of the state.

The PMF is already ostensibly a state paramilitary force, though many of the militias within it also act independently and work with Iran.

“The reported steps by Iraqi armed groups toward disarmament are a welcome and encouraging development. This move represents a positive response to the longstanding calls and aspirations of the Marjaeya and our respected religious authorities," Savaya wrote.

"I extend my deep appreciation for their wisdom, moral leadership, and principled guidance, which continue to serve as a compass for the nation.” The Marjaeya is a Shi’ite religious authority and institution in Iraq.

He went on to note that “at the same time, statements of intent alone are not sufficient. Disarmament must be comprehensive, irreversible, and implemented through a clear and binding national framework. This process must include the full dismantling of all armed factions and ensure an orderly, lawful transition of their members into civilian life.”

Disarming Iranian militias will allow for a more stable Iraq

Disarming the militias or getting them to put their extensive arms in the hands of the state is a key way to make sure Iraq is more stable and secure. In the past, the militias have targeted US forces and also carried out drone attacks in the Kurdistan region.

Savaya added in his post that “in accordance with the Iraqi Constitution and the rule of law, no political party, organization, or individual has the right to possess or operate armed formations outside the authority of the state. This principle applies uniformly across all parts of Iraq, without exception. The exclusive authority to bear arms and use force must reside solely with the legitimate federal and regional institutions entrusted with organizing, commanding, and managing the nation’s armed forces to protect the Iraqi people and defend national sovereignty.”  

He added, “Iraq stands today at a decisive crossroads. It can move forward on a path of sovereignty, stability, prosperity, unity, and the rule of law, or it can remain trapped in a cycle of fragmentation and insecurity, where illegal armed groups exploit national resources for personal benefit and external agendas, further undermining the authority of the state.”

Seth J. Frantzman

Source: https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-880961

Follow Middle East and Terrorism on Twitter