Sudani Moves To Reclaim Iraq’s Monopoly on Force
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani said Monday that parties across the spectrum have reached a “unified national consensus” to end weapons outside state control, laying out a plan to fold armed factions into official ranks or move them into politics. Speaking in an interview, he added, “There will be a clear program to end any arms outside of state institutions. This is the demand of all.” He also described Baghdad’s posture toward Washington: “Iraq pursues a balanced relationship with the United States, one that serves mutual interests and affirms Iraq’s independent role as a partner, not a sphere of influence.”
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The remarks come as Iraq tries to reassert the monopoly of force after years of parallel command structures involving powerful factions that fought the Islamic State group. The US-led coalition deployed to Iraq in 2014 at Baghdad’s request; roughly 2,500 US troops remain while the two governments work on a transition first outlined last year. Sudani questioned the continuing need for foreign forces, arguing the Islamic State group no longer poses a strategic threat, while insisting that integration or disarmament is the only path for armed groups operating outside ministries.
Iraq declared victory over the Islamic State group in 2017, yet low-level cells persist in rural belts, and rocket and drone incidents tied to factions have periodically tested Baghdad’s authority and US-Iraq ties. Sudani also confirmed he will run in the Nov. 11 elections, setting up a contest with parties inside his own ruling alliance as he seeks a second term on a platform of state consolidation and steady—but sovereign—relations with the US.
