Iran proposes plan to avert Iraq arms standoff ahead of deadline

Iran is actively working to mediate a potential conflict between the Iraqi government and Tehran-aligned armed factions concerning the control of weapons. Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf traveled to Baghdad with proposals aimed at averting a direct confrontation as a Sept. 30 deadline for bringing all arms under state control approaches.

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freezing

Sources indicate Ghalibaf's visit extended beyond parliamentary matters, focusing on political and security issues. The Iranian proposals reportedly include options like "freezing" or temporarily concealing heavy weapons, and potentially transferring a significant portion to Iran until a political resolution is reached regarding the factions' arsenals. These details remain unverified publicly by either Tehran or Baghdad.

Despite the diplomatic efforts, an Iraqi government source affirmed the administration's determination to meet the Sept. 30 deadline, aligning with the planned withdrawal of U.S. forces. This stance was reportedly reinforced in recent meetings, with the government taking practical steps like forming a committee for disengagement, establishing a weapons database, and closing fictitious offices linked to the Popular Mobilization Forces.

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determined to respect its deadlines

Tensions are escalating as some armed factions, notably Kataib Hezbollah, refuse to surrender what they term "resistance weapons." The government source stated authorities would not engage in "wars of words" or "ill-considered confrontations," emphasizing their commitment to enforcing the constitution and law. The increasingly aggressive rhetoric from certain factions, including threats against the prime minister, highlights the mounting pressure surrounding the weapons-control plan.

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would not be drawn into “wars of words” or “ill-considered confrontations”