Iraq Extends Deadline for Disarming Factions to June 30

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Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaydi has set June 30, 2027, as the deadline to finalize the issue of controlling the weapons of Iran-affiliated groups in the hands of the Iraqi state, in an announcement made the day after the end of the international coalition's mission led by Washington to combat armed groups.

Al-Zaydi said, "October 1, 2026, is considered a serious start to addressing the issue of weapons outside the control of the state, and adhering to constitutional obligations, according to a clear roadmap and agreed-upon timelines that do not exceed June 30, 2027, and in accordance with the constitutional principle that leaves the decision of war and peace to the constitutional authorities, and prevents any military action otherwise."

He added that "the government will work, in accordance with the constitution, to disarm all non-Iraqi armed groups present on Iraqi territory completely, in a manner that preserves the country's security and stability and controls its borders."

He continued that "the Iraqi government reaffirms its constitutional commitment to preventing the use of Iraqi land and airspace as a launch pad or passage for any action that threatens the security of neighboring countries, and it rejects the use of the territory or airspace of any country to attack Iraq, based on the principles of mutual sovereignty, good neighborliness, and non-interference in internal affairs."

Noting that "the government will begin supporting security institutions by purchasing a complete air defense system, to enhance the full air sovereignty of the Iraqi state."

He affirmed that "Iraq looks forward to a new phase to achieve complete national sovereignty and to enhance civil peace, stability, and prosperity, directing the state's capabilities and resources towards sustainable development, improving the lives of citizens, providing necessary services, and building a safe and stable future for the coming generations."

This statement comes after the end of the previous government's deadline for the factions to hand over their weapons, on Wednesday, September 30.