Iraq’s government has given pro-Iran armed groups in the country until September 30 to disarm, coinciding with the end of the US-led anti-extremist coalition’s mission, its spokesman said on Monday.
The announcement comes ahead of a visit to the United States by new Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi, with Washington exerting pressure on Baghdad to ensure the factions turn in their weapons.
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“All the armed groups have been informed of a specific date that marks the end of this issue (of disarmament)... which is September 30, which also marks the end of the international coalition’s presence,” government spokesman Haidar al-Aboudi said in a weekly press conference.
“After this date, all weapons outside the state framework will be subject to legal redress,” he added.
