Iraq vows to prevent its territory from being used to attack neighbors

Iraqi forces have reiterated that there is no justification for bearing arms outside state authority, stating that "there will be no justification for weapons outside the state framework after September 30," the expected date for the withdrawal of international coalition forces from the country.

According to Al Arabiya, Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein confirmed that Iraqi forces will assume responsibility for security in the country following the withdrawal of international coalition troops from Iraqi territory, which is scheduled by the end of this month. He stressed the ability of Iraqi forces to address internal security challenges.

The minister said Iraq has various security formations, noting that securing the country after the coalition's withdrawal is an internal matter, and that Iraqi forces are capable of handling domestic challenges. He added that the military is working to prevent Iraq from being used as a base to target neighboring countries.

The Iraqi government has repeatedly affirmed its commitment to restricting weapons to state control, especially with the coalition's withdrawal at the end of this month. Authorities have also set out a plan to disarm and fully resolve this issue by June 2027.

Three armed factions have responded to the call to restrict weapons: Saraya al-Salam led by Muqtada al-Sadr, Asa'ib Ahl al-Haq, and Kata'ib Imam Ali led by Shibl al-Zaidi. These groups have handed over their heavy weapons to the state and announced their transition to civilian activities.