Iraq: Weapons Control Includes Everyone, PMF Part of Security System

Iraq has reiterated its commitment to controlling weapons, emphasizing that the recent decision applies to all entities operating outside the framework of state security institutions. The government stressed that the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) are an integral part of the security system and are subject to military laws.

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The entities covered by weapons control are those outside the framework of the state's security institutions.

Brigadier General Saad Maan, head of the Security Media Cell, stated that the weapons control measures target groups outside the official security apparatus. He clarified that the PMF, as part of the Iraqi armed forces, falls under the provisions of Law No. 40 of 2016, meaning all its members are subject to existing military regulations. This move is intended to prevent the emergence of any parallel leaderships or the illicit use of weapons outside the state's purview.

This reinforcement of state control follows recent actions by the Iraqi Ministry of Interior, which announced the closure of 71 fictitious headquarters allegedly linked to the PMF. Concurrently, authorities reported the registration of over half a million unlicensed firearms. The PMF, however, has distanced itself from these fictitious headquarters, stating they have no affiliation with the official organization.

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The Popular Mobilization Forces are part of the Iraqi armed forces, and according to Law No. 40 of 2016, all its members are subject to military laws.

In June, Iraqi authorities intensified their efforts to consolidate weapon control, successfully retrieving arms from several factions as part of a broader national security initiative.

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The goal of the decision is to ensure the absence of parallel leadership or other leaderships using weapons outside the framework of the state.