Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaydi said Sept. 30 [1] is the final deadline to ensure all weapons are held exclusively by the state.
This directive represents a significant escalation in the government's effort to consolidate authority and eliminate paramilitary influence. By setting a hard date for disarmament, the administration seeks to stabilize the national security architecture and reduce the prevalence of unregulated armed groups within the country.
The announcement follows a visit to Washington, where al-Zaydi met with U.S. President Donald Trump [1]. The prime minister said the move is part of a broader strategy to enhance the role of the army in maintaining public security and order.
Alongside the disarmament deadline, al-Zaydi said the government will intensify its campaign to combat corruption [1]. The administration aims to link security stability with institutional integrity, suggesting that the removal of illicit weapons is a prerequisite for effective governance.
The prime minister said the army's role in preserving security is paramount to the state's survival. He said that the transition to a state-monopolized security apparatus is essential for long-term stability [1].
These measures come as Iraq continues to navigate internal political pressures and external diplomatic engagements. The coordination with the U.S. administration suggests a strategic alignment on the necessity of a centralized Iraqi security force to prevent the resurgence of instability.
“Sept. 30 is the final deadline to ensure all weapons are held exclusively by the state.”
The establishment of a concrete deadline for disarmament suggests a shift from political negotiation to active enforcement. By aligning this move with a high-profile visit to the U.S., the Iraqi government is signaling both domestic rivals and international partners that it intends to transition from a fragmented security landscape to a centralized state monopoly on force.
