Iraq Orders Iran-Backed Militias to Disarm by September 30

The State Administration Coalition, a political alliance of Shiite, Sunni, and Kurdish parties, has ordered Iran-backed militias to disarm by September 30. During a meeting hosted by Prime Minister Ali Al Zaidi, the coalition declared that any armed activity outside the state framework after the deadline will be prosecuted under anti-terrorism laws, which may carry the death penalty.

This directive aims to stop Iraqi territory from serving as a launchpad for attacks against U.S. assets and neighboring countries during the ongoing Iran war. The deadline aligns with the scheduled withdrawal of U.S. troops under a 2024 agreement. The meeting included high-ranking officials, including President Nizar Amedi and the Chief of the Supreme Judicial Council, Faiq Zaidan, signaling the government's preparation of legal mechanisms for prosecution.

Simultaneously, the coalition condemned recent attacks on the Popular Mobilisation Forces that killed at least 20 fighters, including five Iranian advisers. While the coalition did not explicitly name the United States or Saudi Arabia as the perpetrators in its official statement, the move highlights the volatile security environment as Iraq seeks to consolidate state control over armed groups.