Iranian-Backed Militias in Iraq Enter Advanced Disarmament Talks

Militias begin reducing city presence as Iraq navigates U.S. pressure to disband groups under threat of airstrikes.

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.