New Iraq PM pledges monopoly on arms

Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi, whose government was voted in by Iraq’s parliament on Thursday, has vowed to ensure a state monopoly on weapons. 

Zaidi’s programme involves “reforming the security apparatus by restricting weapons to state control and strengthening the capability of the security forces,” according to a statement by the parliament media office carried by Iraq’s state news agency.

This comes amid growing US pressure on Iraq to dismantle Tehran-backed groups operating in the country.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi posted on X to congratulate the new government of Iraq, stating their intention of “expanding the friendly and fraternal relations between Tehran and Baghdad” as one of Iran’s “top priorities”.

US diplomat Tom Barrack meanwhile said his government was ready to work with Zaidi "to advance our shared goals of prosperity for the Iraqi people and the elimination of terrorism, which is always an impediment to the people's progress".