Al-Zaidi: Weapon monopoly to be achieved by June 2027

New York – Agencies: Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi affirmed in an interview published by The New York Times that his government’s plan to disarm the armed factions “is not an option, but a necessity,” and pledged to complete the plan by 2027. Al-Zaidi stated, “Others have spoken about this matter and then backed down, yielding to pressure or other considerations… As for me, this issue, along with the issue of corruption, is a matter of honor.”

He added that under the plan, there will initially be a 90-day period during which the factions will refrain from launching any attacks, in exchange for guarantees that they will not be targeted by U.S. forces. He said that after this period ends, the factions will begin handing over their weapons, with the disarmament process to be completed by June 30, 2027, although the government is still seeking to extend the deadline to the end of the year to finalize the process.

Al-Zaidi clarified that his goal is for these factions to cease existing as independent entities, adding, “They will join the Popular Mobilization Forces as individuals and integrate into them.” However, he warned that after the deadline expires, any groups operating under the names of these factions “will be regarded as outlaw groups.”

Regarding the economic dimension, the Iraqi Prime Minister stated that consolidating control over weapons will enable Baghdad “to build a strong economy.” He noted that Iraq, the world’s third-largest oil exporter, has lost 60% of its monthly export revenues due to the repercussions of the Iran war. He added that since assuming office, he has been evaluating proposals to build an oil pipeline, one of which could extend to Europe, against the backdrop of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz resulting from the war’s aftermath.