Iraqi Government Spox Says All Weapons Must Remain Under State Control

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — Iraqi government spokesperson Haider al-Aboudi said Monday that all government and security institutions must remain under state authority, stressing that no other party should control weapons outside the framework of the state.

Speaking at a press conference, al-Aboudi called on armed groups operating outside Iraq’s official security forces to return under state control, saying the process requires a "deep and comprehensive dialogue.” He said there is a high level of understanding between the government and the armed groups and that Baghdad remains committed to advancing and monitoring the process.

The remarks come amid ongoing efforts by the Iraqi government to consolidate state authority over weapons and armed forces, a long-standing issue involving Iran-aligned factions and other armed groups operating alongside the country’s official security institutions.

On the withdrawal of foreign forces, al-Aboudi said the September deadline for the withdrawal of US forces must be respected. He said US forces would transfer their responsibilities to the Iraqi army and hand over their weapons as part of the process.

The spokesperson also said the government has continued implementing its ministerial program over the past nearly 90 days and is moving toward a clear roadmap for its implementation.

He said the roadmap reflects the priorities of the current phase and addresses the needs of the state and its citizens, adding that the government is using all available means to confront the historic challenges facing Iraq, fulfill its constitutional and legal responsibilities, and strengthen the country’s ability to respond to an unstable regional environment.

Iraq has sought to strengthen the authority of its state institutions amid heightened regional tensions, while balancing its security ties with the United States and relations with armed factions operating within the country.