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BAGHDAD: 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 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.
“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. Iraq is home to several powerful Iran-backed armed factions, which have seen their political and financial clout increase over the years.
Many emerged in the wake of the 2003 US-led invasion of Iraq and gained further power and prominence during the fight against the militant Islamic State group from 2014 onwards.
