Baghdad: The Prime Minister’s Security Advisor, Qasim al-Araji, has affirmed that the state’s monopoly on weapons is a purely Iraqi strategic decision. In a televised statement, al-Araji announced that while the military battle against ISIS has concluded, there are still some remaining terrorist pockets. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that all entities operate under the state’s authority, with the decision for peace and war resting solely with the Iraqi government.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, al-Araji explained that the Prime Minister will not seek a second term, as he is deemed suitable for the current transitional phase. Stressing the necessity for unified political decision-making within Iraq, he revealed a proposal has been made to Iran and Saudi Arabia to establish a unified security coordination council, attributing the ongoing issues between the two nations to a crisis of confidence.
Al-Araji further indicated that relations with the international coalition are expected to strengthen after September 30th. He underscored the role of the economy as a key partner and supporter of security, and advocated for the unification of security and political efforts to safeguard the achievements made thus far. He noted that the consolidation of weapons under state control requires time to ensure the protection of everyone’s rights.
September 30th has been set as the date for the international coalition’s withdrawal, marking the commencement of the government’s and political forces’ objectives. Al-Araji clarified that this date signifies the start of the gradual process to consolidate weapons under state control, not the deadline for the handover of weapons. He emphasized a consensus on the necessity for the state to have exclusive control over weapons and urged political parties to sever ties with the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) brigades, while also working to guarantee the rights of PMF fighters. He attributed regional circumstances as a reason why some factions have yet to agree to surrender their weapons.