By Anas al-Bar | 2026-08-25

Iraq is currently dismantling 71 unauthorized Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) bases, marking a pivotal step in a broad government plan to curb militia military influence.

Iraqi Ministry of Interior aims to register over six million weapons, bringing them under the complete control of the state.

Baghdad seeks to assert full authority before September 30, targeting groups that operate outside official decision-making channels and government oversight.

"Government efforts are focused on removing the official cover behind which these militias freely operate, such as stockpiling weapons and recruiting fighters," strategic analyst Tariq al-Shammari told Al-Fassel.

"The government is working to bring all groups under its control, impose strict oversight, and place weapons in state custody," he explained.

He added that the state wants to prohibit the concealment of unregistered arms while eliminating current militia weapon stockpiles everywhere.

Al-Shammari highlighted the importance of a national registry, which ensures all weaponry is subject to rigorous tracking, auditing, and accountability.

The campaign combats all manifestations of armed activity, including military displays in cities and headquarters opened by unknown, unauthorized entities or PMF affiliated groups.

Dismantling all secret military bases

Weakening the operational capabilities and arsenals of Iran-aligned groups is crucial because these militias currently threaten Iraq’s broader national stability.

Al-Shammari emphasized that "dismantling secret military facilities is essential to close down the economic offices generating wealth through illicit extortion."

Any military activity or unauthorized weaponry remaining after the September deadline will be subject to strict legal action by Baghdad.

Internal divisions among militia groups

Researcher Raad al-Dulaimi warned that any group refusing to surrender weapons and continuing hostile activities will be designated a terrorist entity.

"By doing so, they would be choosing a losing battle against the state and its vital national security institutions," he told Al-Fassel.

Severe internal divisions exist within the militias, like Asaib Ahl al-Haq and Kataib al-Imam Ali are heeding reason and unconditionally accepting the disarmament process.

Conversely, factions like Kataib Hizbullah, Harakat al-Nujaba, and Kataib Sayyid al-Shuhada, continue to refuse, actively prioritizing the foreign agenda of their Iranian patrons.

Smaller groups like Harakat Ansar Allah al-Awfiya and Awliya al-Dam remain defiant, directly challenging the central authority of the Iraqi government.

The government remains committed to enforcing its timeline, aiming to prevent these militias from impersonating official forces to undermine state legitimacy.

Officials are confident that this systematic approach will ultimately restore sovereign order and prevent unauthorized groups from jeopardizing regional security interests.