The PMF Law draft is now officially under review in the Iraqi parliament. Lawmakers submitted the final version after weeks of preparation. The key proposal seeks to regulate the Popular Mobilization Forces, the armed groups integrated into Iraq’s security framework following the 2014 ISIS conflict.
The Parliamentary Security and Defense Committee confirmed completion of the PMF Law draft on Saturday. Committee member Mohammed al-Shammari explained that lawmakers collected signatures urging parliament’s leadership to include the law on the upcoming session’s agenda. Shammari emphasized that external pressures have tried to delay progress. Nevertheless, these interventions will not deter parliament from addressing the draft alongside other key legislation.
argue that it protects fighters’ rights and formalizes their role within Iraq’s security apparatus. Critics, however, warn that it may expand the groups’ influence beyond state oversight. Some political forces remain hesitant, and coordination among parties will be crucial for the bill’s passage.
The Coordination Framework, a main Shia bloc backing the PMF, noted that persuading a few hesitant lawmakers is the next step. Meanwhile, certain MPs are urging stricter attendance enforcement for members who skip sessions this week.
Parliament had planned meetings from Monday through Wednesday, focusing on a three-day agenda. Initially, the PMF Law draft did not appear on the schedule. Legislative activity had stalled since August 5 due to a dispute between the Speaker and Deputy Speaker over session authority. This deadlock delayed several bills, including the PMF Law draft, while political factions shifted attention to upcoming election campaigns.
Observers note that advancing the PMF Law draft will set a significant precedent in Iraq’s security and legislative framework. Its passage may stabilize internal military organization but could also spark debates over the balance of state control and militia power. Lawmakers stress the urgency of addressing the draft to ensure continuity in governance and legal clarity for PMF members.
As discussions continue, the parliament aims to reconcile differing political views and finalize the PMF Law draft without further delays. Analysts predict that the next few sessions will be decisive for Iraq’s security legislation.
The PMF Law draft now represents both a critical legal framework and a test of parliamentary cooperation. Its outcome will shape Iraq’s legislative and security environment for years to come.
