Overview

• Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani is engaged in advanced discussions with Iranian-backed militia leaders about disarmament, marking a significant step toward addressing U.S. demands.
• Some militias have already reduced their presence in major cities like Mosul and Anbar to avoid potential U.S. airstrikes, signaling partial compliance.
• The U.S. has warned Iraq that failure to disband militias could lead to military action, intensifying the urgency of ongoing negotiations.
• Iran's Revolutionary Guards have granted militias autonomy to decide on disarmament, reflecting Tehran's strategic recalibration to avoid direct conflict with the U.S.
• Disarmament options under discussion include integrating militias into Iraq's armed forces or transitioning them into political entities, though no final agreement has been reached.