Iraqi lawmakers have begun discussions on the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) law aimed at integrating these groups into state military structures. U.S. officials call for strict oversight and command by the Prime Minister instead of Iranian influence. Political conflicts among various Shiite factions are causing delays, while the proposed law seeks to clearly define the PMF’s role and responsibilities. Successful passage could signify a pivotal shift in Iraq’s security governance.
On March 24, 2025, the Iraqi parliament convened to discuss the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) law, aiming to integrate the PMF into the national armed forces. Concurrently, U.S. officials emphasized that the PMF must ultimately report to the Iraqi Prime Minister and not to Iranian authorities.
The PMF was formed in 2014 in response to the ISIS threat and consists predominantly of Shiite armed groups. Initially, it included around 70 groups and was backed by a fatwa from Iraq’s Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani. Despite an existing legal framework established in 2016, it remains vague and lacks essential operational details, necessitating further legislative action.
Recently approved by the Iraqi Council of Ministers, a new PMF Service and Retirement Law aims to regulate the PMF similar to other state security entities. However, political divisions among Shiite factions delayed its progress, leading to its withdrawal from consideration by Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani earlier this month. Ongoing disagreements concern proposed mandatory retirement ages for PMF members and the extent of government oversight.
The United States has expressed concerns regarding the PMF’s ties to Iranian-affiliated groups, urging the Iraqi government to assert control over all military factions. Furthermore, U.S. officials have highlighted the need for the PMF to undergo a complete detachment from Iranian influence to enhance the sovereignty of Iraq’s military structure.
The proposed legislation encompasses 18 provisions that would place the PMF under the Iraqi Prime Minister’s command and restrict its members from engaging in political activities. Additionally, the PMF would be required to protect Iraq’s national security and collaborate with other state institutions, with its leadership structure reformulated to include a ministerial chairman and a dedicated military academy.
Moving forward, this legislation is poised to undergo necessary legal procedures, indicating a possible resolution among political factions. However, different interpretations suggest that the recent parliamentary reading may also have been a tactical move to mask ongoing divisions while reinstating regular legislative operations.
In conclusion, the Iraqi government’s ongoing efforts to formulate the PMF law highlight significant tensions between political factions and influence from external entities. With the U.S. advocating for greater control over the PMF and Iraq’s internal political struggles complicating the legislative process, the future integration of the PMF into state forces remains uncertain. Successful passage and implementation of the law will be crucial for enhancing Iraq’s sovereignty and stabilizing its security structure.
Original Source: www.rudaw.net
