Iraq’s parliament conducted the first hearing on the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) law, aimed at integrating PMF into national forces. US officials emphasized the need for PMF adherence to Iraqi command over Iranian influence. The law addresses governance, operational structure, and leadership roles, amid ongoing political tensions surrounding its provisions.
On March 24, 2025, the Iraqi parliament conducted the first hearing regarding the contentious Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) law. This legislation aims to formally integrate the PMF into the state military framework, responding to concerns raised by US officials, who urged that PMF groups must operate under the command of Iraq’s Prime Minister rather than external influences, specifically Iran.
The Iraqi news agency reported that the parliament has finished the initial reading of the PMF law draft. Established during the 2014 ISIS offensive, the PMF began as a coalition of armed groups and now includes about 250,000 members, primarily from Shiite factions. Previous legislative attempts to formalize the PMF were ambiguous, prompting additional reforms to solidify its role within Iraq’s security framework.
In February, a new PMF Service and Retirement Law was approved by the Iraqi Council of Ministers and forwarded to the legislature. According to a government source, this new bill is intended to reform the PMF, aligning it more closely with other state military entities. However, on March 15, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani retracted the draft amid political disagreements among Shiite factions.
Disputes among political blocks regarding stipulations such as a mandatory retirement age for members and oversight measures by the government have complicated negotiations. One faction seeks to enforce a retirement age of 60 for PMF members, which could lead to significant changes in leadership, including the potential retirement of prominent commanders.
The United States has condemned the close ties of some PMF factions to Iran and has expressed concerns regarding their influence on Iraq’s trajectory. According to US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce, ensuring the PMF operates under Iraqi command is crucial for strengthening Iraq’s sovereignty and control over security forces.
The draft law includes provisions that would subject the PMF to the command of the Iraqi Prime Minister, preventing members from engaging in political activities while outlining their responsibilities in national defense and support of constitutional governance. The law also mandates the formation of a military academy and establishes stringent qualification criteria for PMF leadership roles.
As the contentious PMF law returns to legislative consideration, analysts speculate this could indicate a resolution among political factions, permitting further legal progress. Nonetheless, should the law be enacted, it will result in the repeal of the 2016 framework, transferring all related rights and benefits to the PMF under this new structure.
In conclusion, the initial hearing of the Popular Mobilization Forces law represents a significant step toward the integration of the PMF into Iraq’s military framework, as urged by American officials. The legislative process highlights ongoing political disagreements, particularly regarding operational oversight and leadership structure. As Iraq aspires to assert its sovereignty and stabilize its security institutions, the passage of this law could redefine the PMF’s role and its relationship with both the Iraqi government and external influences such as Iran.
Original Source: www.rudaw.net
