Has a 'national consensus' been reached in Iraq to bring weapons under state control?
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Synopsis
In a significant political development, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani declares a 'unified national consensus' has been achieved to control unauthorized weapons. This bold move seeks to redefine Iraq's security landscape and its foreign military relations as the country prepares for upcoming elections.
Key Takeaways
- Unified Consensus: Political parties in Iraq have agreed to control unauthorized weapons.
- Foreign Forces: The necessity of foreign military presence is being questioned.
- Future of Armed Groups: Armed factions are encouraged to integrate or disarm.
- US-Iraq Relations: A balanced partnership with the U.S. is being sought.
- Upcoming Elections: Al-Sudani will compete for a second term on November 11.
Baghdad, Nov 4 (NationPress) Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani announced that the Iraqi political landscape has achieved a unified national consensus aimed at eliminating the existence of all arms that operate beyond the state's authority.
During a recent interview, al-Sudani stated that there will be a clear plan to eradicate any weapons systems not under state control, emphasizing that this is a collective demand from all parties involved.
He raised concerns about the necessity of foreign military forces in Iraq, arguing that the threat from the Islamic State (IS) has diminished. Furthermore, he urged that armed groups should either become part of the official security apparatus or disarm and participate in the political process.
In the same interview, al-Sudani discussed Iraq's ties with the United States. He remarked, “Iraq seeks a balanced relationship with the U.S. that serves our mutual interests and solidifies Iraq's role as a sovereign partner, not merely a zone of influence,” as per his media office.
In September 2022, an agreement was struck between the U.S. and Iraq for the gradual withdrawal of U.S.-led coalition forces, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Currently, around 2,500 U.S. troops remain stationed in Iraq as part of the coalition formed in 2014 to combat IS.
Moreover, al-Sudani declared his intention to participate in the elections scheduled for November 11, where he will vie for a second term against factions within his own ruling coalition.
Point of View
The announcement by Prime Minister al-Sudani represents a crucial step towards consolidating Iraq's sovereignty and security. Achieving a unified consensus among political parties indicates a collective commitment to restoring order and reducing the influence of armed factions. This move is essential for Iraq's stability and its role on the global stage.
NationPress
05/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Iraqi PM al-Sudani announce regarding weapons control?
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani announced a unified national consensus among political parties to eliminate weapons operating outside the state's authority.
What is the current status of foreign forces in Iraq?
Currently, there are approximately 2,500 U.S. troops in Iraq as part of a coalition formed to combat the Islamic State.
What does al-Sudani suggest for armed factions?
He suggests that armed factions should either integrate into official security forces or disarm and engage in the political process.
When are the upcoming elections in Iraq?
The upcoming elections in Iraq are scheduled for November 11.
How does al-Sudani view Iraq's relationship with the United States?
Al-Sudani envisions a balanced relationship with the U.S. that serves mutual interests and affirms Iraq's independent role.
