Iraq has taken a major step toward a PMF leadership overhaul, proposing sweeping reforms to the Popular Mobilization Forces’ command structure and internal law. These changes aim to align the force with national security standards and limit political controversy surrounding its leadership.
A senior lawmaker confirmed that a parliamentary committee recently submitted a revised version of the PMF Authority Law. This draft includes new eligibility criteria for the head of the force. According to the proposed law, any future leader must have served for at least ten years in the PMF. Additionally, candidates must hold both security and academic qualifications.
These updates did not emerge overnight. Lawmakers considered earlier discussions in parliament before shaping the amendments. The law also outlines a minimum military rank and introduces a broader, more inclusive selection process.
Under the new framework, the PMF will operate under the authority of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. The Iraqi government will take full responsibility for arming and equipping the group. This change is designed to formalize the PMF as an integral part of the country’s security system.
The committee emphasized that the internal legal team of the PMF took part in reviewing the amendments. Once parliament meets quorum, lawmakers expect to vote on the draft in the next session. After publication in the official gazette, the new law will take effect immediately.
The PMF leadership overhaul raises questions about the future of the current head of the organization. Lawmakers will decide based on whether the individual meets the updated requirements, even though they haven’t named anyone.
Meanwhile, Washington has raised concerns about the proposed changes. U.S. officials have warned that these amendments might empower factions with ties to Iran. They argue that the legislation could legitimize groups previously labeled as terrorist entities. Iraqi and American diplomats recently discussed these issues during their meetings.
The PMF was originally created in 2014 after ISIS seized control of Mosul. That year, a national call to arms mobilized thousands of fighters, mainly from Shiite groups. These volunteers formed the backbone of the force that would later become the PMF.
As Iraq pushes forward with this PMF leadership overhaul, political and security institutions brace for a significant shift. The aim is clear: to bring more professionalism, transparency, and national unity to one of Iraq’s most powerful security groups.
