Baghdad: The Parliamentary Security Committee has unveiled a comprehensive set of proposed amendments to the Ministry of Defense’s Service and Retirement Law, aiming to enhance the conditions for retirement and service benefits for military personnel.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Parliamentary Security and Defense Committee has been actively collaborating with the Ministry of Defense to refine the Defense Service and Retirement Law No. 3 of 2010. MP Ali Nahir Al-Sarai, a member of the committee, announced during a press conference that significant changes are being considered in the law, particularly concerning retirement eligibility. The proposed amendments include reducing the required actual service period for retirement to 15 years. Furthermore, discussions are underway to determine whether the retirement age should be set at 40 or 45 years, in consultation with the Ministry of Defense.
Al-Sarai highlighted the inclusion of a new clause aimed at safeguarding the rights of contracted personnel within the Ministry of Defense. This clause seeks to align contract work conditions with those in the Ministry of Interior, ensuring that contracted employees receive their due rights and entitlements once the budget is approved.
In addition, Al-Sarai explained that military members who complete 15 years of service but have not reached the age of 40 will not be eligible to receive a pension until they attain the age of 40 or 45. This provision aims to balance early retirement with financial sustainability.
The proposed amendments also address the classification of personnel injured during service. Al-Sarai stated that those injured during enlistment or discharge will be regarded as martyrs, similar to soldiers who fall in battle. The committee has revised the orders to guarantee full benefits for those wounded in military operations or who suffer injuries. Additionally, personnel who die due to terminal illnesses or radiation exposure in military barracks will also receive martyr benefits.
Al-Sarai emphasized that the service period, including time spent in training and studies, will be counted towards the 15-year requirement for retirement eligibility. Special provisions will also be made for special forces personnel, whose allowances will be added to retirement benefits. The amendment further proposes granting five additional points to martyrs’ children when applying to colleges and universities, mirroring the policies of the Ministry of Interior.