Iraq seeks weapons control as foreign troops plan withdrawal

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani committed to bring all weapons under state control, but noted the challenge posed by the continued presence of a U.S.-led coalition in Iraq, Maghrebi Week reported on November 10th.

Sudani stated foreign troops are expected to leave by September 2026. He argued that the Islamic State threat has faded and questioned the need for “86 states” to remain in Iraq.

He pledged that once forces withdraw, his government will move to end armed groups operating outside state institutions. Sudani also aims to strengthen state authority as U.S. troops gradually depart. 

Maghrebi Week