Iraq’s parliament has postponed legislation on the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) until the next term due to political disagreements. Lawmaker Ibtisam al-Hilali, from the State of Law coalition, confirmed the move. She said parliament approved other bills, including the Mental Health Law, but political divisions blocked the PMF legislation.
Al-Hilali explained that disputes over the PMF law continue within the Coordination Framework, the Shiite alliance supporting the government. These disagreements repeatedly caused quorum breakdowns and halted work on major laws. With only two parliamentary sessions left before elections, lawmakers lack time to finalize the legislation.
The delays began on August 5, when Speaker Mahmoud al-Mashhadani and Deputy Speaker Mohsen al-Mandalawi clashed over session authority. Their conflict froze progress on key bills, especially the PMF legislation. Political blocs then focused on campaigning for the November elections, further reducing legislative activity.
Coordination Framework member Uday al-Khadran said Iraq’s top leaders—including the president, prime minister, parliament speaker, and judiciary chief—agreed to withdraw the PMF draft. He said deferring the legislation aims to maintain stability and prevent regional tensions.
The PMF formed in 2014 after Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani called for volunteers to resist ISIS following Mosul’s fall. It mainly consists of Shiite paramilitary groups and played a central role in Iraq’s fight against ISIS. Parliament recognized the PMF as part of Iraq’s armed forces in 2016, but lawmakers had not passed detailed rules for oversight or organization.
The proposed PMF Authority Law, supported by major Shiite factions, seeks to integrate the PMF into the military chain of command, regulate funding, and standardize ranks. Supporters argue it would strengthen state control and clarify the PMF’s role. Critics warn it could empower Iran-aligned groups and create a parallel security system outside civilian oversight.
The postponement highlights Iraq’s struggle to balance political tensions, national security, and regional dynamics. With elections approaching, lawmakers face limited time to address key legislation, leaving the PMF’s legal framework uncertain.
