Baghdad – Iraq’s top political leaders have agreed to delay the PMF Authority Law, signaling caution amid rising regional and internal tensions. The PMF Authority Law now faces postponement, as the country’s four presidencies aim to maintain stability.
Uday al-Khadran, a member of the Coordination Framework, explained that the president, prime minister, parliament speaker, and judiciary chief recently met to discuss the legislation. They decided to withdraw the draft from parliament temporarily. He emphasized that this step preserves internal stability and avoids dragging Iraq into regional conflicts.
The decision does not affect the existence or operations of the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF). “This decision does not dissolve the PMF. Responsibility for the law will rest with the next parliament and government,” al-Khadran said. He also stressed that external or internal pressure will not alter this stance.
The PMF Authority Law aims to organize the paramilitary force comprehensively. It seeks to standardize ranks, define its relationship with the Defense and Finance Ministries, secure clear funding mechanisms, and require senior leaders to have military experience. These measures aim to ensure accountability and professionalism within the force.
Support for the draft law remains divided. Most Shiite blocs back the legislation, while Kurdish and Sunni factions oppose certain aspects. These differences have fueled political debate for months, highlighting Iraq’s ongoing challenge of balancing national unity with factional interests.
The PMF itself was established in 2014 following a religious edict after Mosul fell to ISIS. Thousands of volunteers joined existing military units under government supervision, creating a semi-formal paramilitary structure. Over the years, the PMF has played a central role in Iraq’s security landscape, which explains why legislation regarding its authority generates such intense discussion.
Political observers note that delaying the PMF Authority Law could reduce immediate tensions but does not solve underlying disagreements. Future parliaments will face the challenge of passing legislation acceptable to all factions while keeping Iraq stable. Meanwhile, leaders continue consultations, showing that compromise remains essential for governance.
In conclusion, Iraq’s decision to postpone the PMF Authority Law highlights the delicate balance between maintaining security and navigating political disputes. All sides agree that stability must come first, even if legislative progress slows.
