Al-Zaidi: Confiscation of Factions' Weapons by the State Begins Mid-Next Year
Agencies2 min read
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Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi set Thursday, June 30, 2027, as the final deadline for completing the confiscation of weapons of armed factions by the state, announcing that October 1st marks a "serious start" to addressing the issue of weapons outside the control of the authorities.
Al-Zaidi said in a statement published by the Iraqi News Agency (INA), coinciding with the end of the international coalition's mission in Iraq and the withdrawal of its forces from the country, that his government will work according to a "clear roadmap and agreed timetables" to address the weapons file, provided that the deadline does not exceed June 30, 2027.
He explained that the plan is based on a constitutional principle that limits the decision of war and peace to constitutional authorities and prohibits any military action outside the framework of the state.
Disarmament of Non-Iraqi Groups
Al-Zaidi said that the government will work to "disarm all non-Iraqi armed groups" present on Iraqi territory, with the aim of preserving the country's security, stability, and border control.
He added that Baghdad is committed to preventing the use of Iraqi land and airspace as a "launchpad or transit for any action that threatens the security of neighboring countries," and also rejects the use of other countries' land or airspace to carry out attacks on Iraq.
The announcement comes as part of a gradual plan to confiscate weapons by the state, starting with a 90-day phase before transitioning to the gradual surrender of weapons, to be completed by June 30, 2027.
Strengthening Air Defense and Legislating the Popular Mobilization Law
The Prime Minister announced that the government will start purchasing a "complete air defense system" to enhance the state's ability to protect its airspace.
He also confirmed the work on enacting the Popular Mobilization Law and securing its position within the security system, to be under the command of the General Commander of the Armed Forces.
Al-Zaidi said that the end of the international coalition's mission represents the beginning of a new phase for Iraq, calling for directing the state's resources towards development, improving services, and enhancing stability.
The plan to confiscate weapons comes as Baghdad seeks to reorganize the relationship between armed factions and state institutions, amid discussions on the mechanisms for surrendering weapons and integrating faction elements into state institutions.
