President Donald Trump has declared that Iraq is prepared to operate independently without the presence of U.S. troops. Meanwhile, Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi emphasized that once the coalition mission ends, armed groups outside state control will lose justification for their existence.
The Trump administration continues its efforts to persuade Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi to disband pro-Iran militias, despite some challenges. Although some Mideast experts show cautious optimism, recent statements from senior Iraqi officials suggest a different timeline than previously anticipated.
In late August, security advisor Qasim al-Araji announced that Iraq would not adhere to the September 30 deadline to disarm groups such as the Popular Mobilization Units (PMU). Instead, this date signifies the departure of the international coalition led by the United States, which defeated ISIS in Iraq and Syria during Trump’s first term.
The Iraqi government aims to gain control over these militias by integrating them into state structures. However, not all groups welcome this approach. Groups like Kataeb Hezbollah and Harakat Hezbollah al-Nujaba remain resistant to disarming or joining the state apparatus.
The presence of weapons outside state authority deters investment and is unacceptable as it does not benefit Iraqis.
In May, U.S. actions against Iraqi officials connected to Iran demonstrated ongoing tensions. The Treasury Department sanctioned Ali Maarij Al-Bahadly for allegedly diverting Iraqi oil for Iranian militias’ benefit. Al-Bahadly faced severe penalties for corruption, though allegations connecting Iraqi oils sales to Iran’s militias are disputed by Iraqi spokespersons.
Ties between Iraq and Iran complicate disarmament efforts. Former U.S. official Alberto Fernandez pointed out oil profits allegedly financing Iranian militias. The legitimacy of such claims is contested by Iraqi authorities.
Trump’s administration achieved notable victories against terrorism. Ali al-Zaidi’s leadership aims to establish a secure Iraq-U.S. partnership, free from terrorist threats. Despite widespread praise for al-Zaidi’s policies discussed during his historic White House visit, disarmament progress remains questioned.
Reports about IRGC Quds Force commander Esmail Qaani’s visit to Baghdad suggested manipulation of disarmament discussions. He reportedly instructed militia leaders to maintain their armaments as part of Iran’s deterrence strategy.
Iraqi militias possess significant influence due to their willingness to use force against even their own people.
Efforts to dismantle PMU continue amid challenging circumstances. Recent attempts by Iraq’s Counter Terrorism Service to arrest militia figures resulted in setbacks, highlighting militia influence and complications in disarmament processes.
The case of Abbas al-Yaqubi’s arrest and transfer illustrates the difficulties faced by Iraqi authorities when confronting powerful militia figures connected to violence against activists.
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