Iraq sets June 30, 2027 deadline to end weapons outside state control

Iraq’s National Security Adviser Qasim Al-Aboudi has set June 30, 2027 as the final deadline to eliminate all weapons outside state control, announcing that five factions have joined the weapons control plan and confirming that the Iraqi government is moving forward with its implementation according to the set timeline.

In exclusive remarks to Al Arabiya Net and Al Hadath Net on the sidelines of the Manama Dialogue 2026, Al-Aboudi said the weapons control plan has achieved significant progress in its implementation stages. He stressed the government’s determination to complete the plan and resolve the issue of arms outside state authority by the specified deadline.

The weapons control initiative stems from a pledge by Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi, who committed to its implementation after taking office in May 2026. Following the conclusion of the international coalition’s mission on September 30, Al-Zaidi announced on October 1 that June 30, 2027 would be the final deadline for the process.

On October 23, Al-Zaidi told the Iraqi News Agency that the government had reached agreements with three factions and was negotiating with four others. Al-Aboudi later announced that five factions had already joined the plan.

Regarding Iraq-Gulf relations, the national security adviser revealed he delivered a message from the prime minister to Gulf states, especially Bahrain, calling for stronger political and economic ties, encouraging Arab investment in Iraq, and establishing what he described as healthy and sustainable partnerships.

Al-Aboudi noted he met with Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, describing the meeting as extremely positive and confirming a shared vision on expanding cooperation and economic openness between Iraq and the Gulf states.

He emphasized the need to avoid leaving any region in political or economic isolation, warning that such isolation could allow other parties to exploit these areas. He affirmed that investment and economic cooperation are essential pillars for regional stability and for strengthening relations among countries in the region.