Baghdad: Members of Parliament, researchers, and experts have underscored the importance of terminating the international coalition’s mission in Iraq by the end of next September, asserting that it is a government decision that has garnered mutual agreement. They believe that the Iraqi armed forces are now equipped to handle security and stability duties independently. Furthermore, they emphasize that the success of restricting weapons solely to state control hinges on political consensus and dialogue with armed factions.
According to Iraqi News Agency, MP Yasser Iskandar Tawtoot confirmed that the withdrawal date of the coalition forces, September 30, was clearly announced by the Prime Minister and is a pre-agreed decision with international parties. He noted that Iraq is prepared to manage its security independently, highlighting the capability of Iraqi armed forces to maintain security without external assistance.
Tawtoot elaborated on the readiness of Iraqi forces, stating that they have proven their capability during operations to liberate Iraqi territories from terrorist groups. He also discussed the government’s plan to restrict weapons to the state, which involves a strategic timeline and internal arrangements to restore state authority and prestige.
Meanwhile, MP Shaker al-Tamimi praised the government’s decision to end the coalition’s presence, suggesting it would enhance the development and armament of the Iraqi military. He advocated for diversification in military partnerships beyond reliance on the United States.
Similarly, MP Nasser Turki al-Awadi reiterated the Prime Minister’s commitment to ending the coalition’s mission as a reinforcement of Iraq’s sovereignty. He emphasized the Parliament’s support for government efforts to ensure the complete withdrawal of foreign forces.
Political and strategic affairs expert Hussein Allawi highlighted the government’s progress in eliminating weapons outside state control and noted the ongoing political dialogue to address this long-standing issue. He stressed the importance of moving from a war footing to a period of development and prosperity.
Political analyst Mohammed Salah Turki pointed out that the success of restricting weapons to the state requires achieving political consensus, integrating willing factions into official institutions, and ensuring equal law enforcement. He suggested that October 1 could mark the start of a new phase in this process.
Security expert Mohammed Ghosoub and strategic expert Sarmad al-Bayati also emphasized the importance of the Iraqi government’s efforts to monopolize weapons and the need for political cooperation to achieve this aim. They acknowledged that support from religious authorities, the judiciary, and the international community is crucial for the successful implementation of these plans.