Iraq PM gives Iran-backed militias until June 2027 to disarm and disband

Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi has set a deadline of June 30, 2027, for Iran-backed militias to disarm and disband as independent entities, according to The New York Times. The plan, announced in his first interview with foreign media, aims to integrate individual fighters into Iraq’s state-recognized Popular Mobilization Forces. Al-Zaidi emphasized, "This is not something that is optional. It is a necessity." The initiative begins with a 90-day period for militias to halt attacks and receive assurances against U.S. targeting, followed by a phased handover of weapons. The Prime Minister stated that groups operating under militia names after the deadline "will be deemed outlaws." This effort is linked to Iraq's economic crisis, with al-Zaidi noting a 60% loss in oil export revenue due to shipping restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has reportedly refused to alleviate. He believes that confining arms is crucial for building a stable economy and fostering international economic ties.