Iraqi Interior Ministry's firearm policy sparks debate over household weapons

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) - The Iraqi Interior Ministry's recent announcement about purchasing medium-sized weapons while permitting one licensed light weapon per household has triggered concerns among civil society organizations about the potential consequences of this decision.

Some citizens are calling for the withdrawal of light weapons as well to prevent the militarization of society.

Interior Ministry spokesperson Miqdad Miri stated that "the Ministry will only purchase medium-sized weapons from citizens," without addressing the issue of light weapons.

The subsequent decision to allow individuals to keep one licensed light weapon at home means that firearms will remain a part of family life, potentially contributing to what some describe as widespread weapon proliferation or societal militarization.

A Baghdad resident told Kurdistan24, "We reject the policy of allowing weapons in every house because it will lead to deteriorating security conditions. We have become a tribal society with destructive traditions. While other countries move forward, we are regressing."

Another citizen expressed concern about the policy's impact on children: "The consequences are negative. Children should see their father working on a computer or holding a book. What will be the implications when they see their father carrying a weapon instead?"

However, some citizens hold different views, preferring to maintain weapons for self-defense due to what they perceive as weak law enforcement.

A Baghdad resident whose house was previously burglarized shared with Kurdistan24, "When we were robbed and went to the police station, they didn't take our case seriously and didn't even open an investigation despite having evidence of the thief who stole our motorcycle. The police mock you, so you have to take matters into your own hands. Today, all people and tribes have weapons. Anyone you ask will tell you there's no one to protect them because the police, who should be serving and protecting the people, don't give you your rights."

The issue of firearms control remains unresolved for the foreseeable future, as government authorities continue to permit one weapon per household. Meanwhile, civil society organizations fear this step perpetuates the militarization of society.

Kurdistan24's Correspondent Seif Ali did further reporting for this article.