BAGHDAD: A senior Iraqi official pushed back a September 30 deadline for pro-Iran factions to hand over their weapons, without offering an explanation for the move or providing a new date. Iraq has come under pressure from the United States to rein in armed factions, particularly those close to Iran. The US and Iran have been at war since February 28, drawing in other countries in the region as well as non-state groups backed by the Islamic republic.

Senior official says original Sept. 30 disarmament deadline was actually date for departure of US forces, does not provide updated timeline for arms handover

Now Iraq is indicating that it actually wants to wait until the US leaves, to disarm the militias. This bait and switch on timing shows how Iraq will slow play its obligations.