Iraq Advances PMF Law Amid U.S. Calls for Enhanced Oversight

Iraq’s parliament held its initial hearing on the PMF law aimed at integrating the Popular Mobilization Forces into state forces, responding to U.S. calls for greater oversight. The law seeks to clarify the command structure, accountability, and operational roles of the PMF amid ongoing political disputes on retirement provisions and influence within the organization. The U.S. urges Iraq to ensure PMF groups report to its leadership rather than external influences like Iran.

On March 24, 2025, Iraq’s parliament conducted its initial hearing regarding the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) law, focusing on integrating the PMF into state forces. Concurrently, U.S. officials emphasized the necessity for the PMF groups to be accountable to Iraq’s Prime Minister rather than external influences such as Iran. The objective behind this legislation is to enhance the command structure and accountability of the PMF amid growing concerns over its connections with Iran-backed factions.

The Iraqi News Agency reported that the lawmakers have begun discussing the PMF Law, which was initially created in 2014 in response to the ISIS threat. Formed under a fatwa from Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, the PMF encompasses about 70 predominantly Shiite groups, with a reported membership of 250,000. Although a 2016 law established a basic legal framework for the PMF, it lacked detail, leading to confusion about its integration within Iraq’s broader security framework.

Recently, the Iraqi Council of Ministers endorsed a revised PMF Service and Retirement Law, which is now under parliamentary consideration. An identified source from INA noted that this new law aims to organize the PMF comparably to other state military bodies. Nevertheless, the Prime Minister withdrew the draft due to political disputes, particularly over the mandatory retirement age for PMF members, which could impact senior leaders.

Political factions such as the Sadiqoun bloc and the State of Law coalition are advocating for a retirement age of 60 for PMF personnel, while existing leaders, including Falih al-Fayyadh and his allies, oppose such provisions to maintain their influence. Al-Fayyadh’s recent visit to Iran suggests efforts to secure backing against this proposed law, as different factions continue to contest provisions related to government oversight, crucial for the PMF’s operational governance.

The United States has expressed concerns regarding the PMF’s ties to Iran-supported militia groups. U.S. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce reinforced that Iraq must exert control over all security forces to reinforce national sovereignty, urging that the PMF must be accountable to Iraq’s leadership rather than to Iran. The U.S. government has also voiced apprehensions over the PMF’s associations with organizations designated as terrorists.

A leaked bill detailing 18 provisions indicates that the PMF would operate under the explicit authority of the Iraqi Prime Minister, who will oversee its operational activities. The PMF’s role would encompass national defense, protection of Iraq’s unity, counterterrorism efforts, and collaboration with various ministries. Leadership within the PMF will be governed by strict qualifications, requiring key figures to possess relevant academic and military experience.

Following the law’s resurrection on the legislative agenda, it is set to undergo further readings and voting procedures. The initial hearing could denote a breakthrough enabling the law’s advancement amidst earlier political turmoil, which had derailed numerous parliamentary functions since February. Should this law be ratified, rights and benefits secured under the previous legislation will transition to the PMF under the newly stipulated regulations.

The Iraqi Parliament’s recent hearing on the PMF law underscores a pivotal moment in Iraq’s pursuit of better governance and security integrity. As political factions grapple with provisions regarding oversight and leadership, U.S. views on the PMF’s alignment with Iranian interests amplify the urgency for Iraq to reinforce its sovereignty. Successful passage and implementation of the law could redefine the operational landscape of the PMF, providing clearer accountability and integrating it into national defense efforts.

Original Source: www.rudaw.net