News
August 10, 2026
Authorities in Iraq have closed 71 fake offices claiming affiliation with the Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF) as part of a nationwide campaign to bring weapons under state control, an Interior Ministry official said on Monday.
The PMF, also known as Hashd Al Shaabi, is a state-sponsored umbrella organisation of mostly Shiite paramilitaries, many of which have close ties to Iran.
The PMF was formally incorporated into Iraq's security apparatus in 2016 after playing a critical role in defeating ISIS. However, critics say some of its factions continue to operate independently of state control, with some accused of attacks on diplomatic missions and US interests.
