Iraq’s parliament has initiated the first reading of the PMF law to integrate it into state forces, responding to US calls for greater accountability to the Iraqi government over Iranian influence. The law aims to clarify PMF’s operational command and prohibits members from political activities. The passage of this law is essential for stabilizing Iraq’s security framework amidst ongoing political discord.
On March 24, 2025, Iraq’s parliament conducted its first hearing on the controversial Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) law, aiming to integrate the PMF into state forces. US officials emphasized that groups under the PMF process should respond to Iraqi Prime Minister, ensuring accountability rather than allegiance to Iran. This legislative move comes in light of the PMF’s controversial history and its various factions.
The PMF was formed in 2014 during the rise of ISIS, initially encompassing around 70 mostly Shiite armed groups. A previous law was passed in 2016 to provide a legal framework, but it included only three articles, resulting in operational ambiguities. The recent draft aims to clarify PMF responsibilities and integrate it into Iraq’s security framework further.
After the Council of Ministers approved a new PMF Service and Retirement law in February, this legislative process encountered delays when Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani withdrew the draft due to internal political conflicts. Different Shiite factions are debating provisions regarding mandatory retirement ages for PMF personnel, which may affect leadership roles within the organization.
The US has expressed concerns about the PMF’s connections with Iranian-backed entities, advocating for Iraqi sovereignty over its security forces. According to State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce, oversight of the PMF by the command structure of the Iraqi government is crucial to prevent external influence.
The proposed law consists of 18 provisions that would place the PMF directly under the Iraqi Prime Minister’s command, prohibiting political activities for PMF members. Additionally, the PMF would focus on national defense tasks like safeguarding Iraq’s integrity and combating terrorism. The new law also outlines the PMF’s leadership structure and financial oversight mechanisms to ensure transparency.
As the PMF law progresses through legislative procedures, its political implications remain considerable. Monday’s reading signifies potential resolutions among conflicting factions, possibly reviving parliamentary functions stalled by this contentious issue. Should the law pass, the rights and benefits from the previous 2016 framework will be transitioned under the new provisions.
The ongoing process of integrating the Popular Mobilization Forces into Iraq’s security structure is pivotal. The proposed PMF law aims to establish clearer operational and oversight parameters while addressing the influence of Iranian-linked groups. The diverse political viewpoints concerning retirement and operational oversight reflect deeper conflicts in Iraqi politics. The resolution of these issues will determine the future stability and command structure of the PMF and Iraq’s military landscape.
Original Source: www.rudaw.net
