Baghdad’s political landscape is undergoing significant changes as Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Faleh Al-Zaidi announced a critical update regarding foreign troops in the country. In a recent statement, he asserted that all US troops, including military advisers, have completed their withdrawal from Iraq. This declaration comes alongside a firm commitment to have all weapons under state control by June 30, 2027. Such moves signal a shift in Iraq’s security dynamics, emphasizing the government’s determination to exercise full control over its military capabilities.
Complete Withdrawal of Foreign Forces
In remarks to the Iraqi News Agency (INA), Al-Zaidi highlighted that the departure of foreign forces has effectively removed the rationale previously used by armed factions to justify the retention of their weapons. He firmly stated that the Iraqi government’s decision to limit weapons to state institutions is both final and irrevocable. By the 2027 deadline, Al-Zaidi pledged that there would be no weapons existing outside the authority of the state, underscoring a clear transition towards centralized military governance.
He elaborated on the government’s progress, revealing that agreements had already been established regarding weapons held by various armed factions. Negotiations are ongoing with others to complete the disarmament process, as the government seeks to solidify its control over military resources. Al-Zaidi stressed the importance of establishing state sovereignty over armed groups, insisting that Iraq should be a state governed by law rather than by factions with independent military power.
Strengthening Ties with the United States
Despite the withdrawal of US troops, Prime Minister Al-Zaidi reaffirmed Iraq’s commitment to fostering a strong strategic partnership with Washington. He emphasized that Iraq has chosen the United States as a key strategic ally due to its technological prowess and economic potential. Currently, US companies are making inroads into the Iraqi market, initiating projects that focus on mutual cooperation.
The Prime Minister indicated that strengthening ties with the US, in tandem with advancing Iraq’s energy sector, would significantly bolster the nation’s regional and international influence. This partnership is intended to transition from military engagement to more cooperative methods, such as training and intelligence sharing, following the conclusion of the US-led coalition’s military mission by September 2026.
Iraq’s Position on Regional Conflicts
Amid escalating regional tensions, Al-Zaidi made it clear that Iraq would not engage in any military conflict. He reiterated the nation’s commitment to act as a neutral ground for dialogue among conflicting parties. According to the Prime Minister, any crisis in the region necessitates negotiation-based solutions, a stance that reflects Iraq’s intent to avoid direct involvement in external conflicts.
He expressed that closing Iraq’s borders with neighboring Iran would have adverse economic impacts for both countries, emphasizing the need for cooperation rather than isolation. This perspective highlights Iraq’s approach of maintaining strong diplomatic and economic ties while navigating the complex geopolitical landscape of the Middle East.
Economic Development Plans
Looking forward, Al-Zaidi revealed ambitious plans for Iraq’s economic growth, particularly in diversifying its oil export routes. To reduce dependence on the Strait of Hormuz, the government aims to establish alternative pipelines. The Prime Minister noted that Iraq is in the process of reactivating oil export routes through Turkey’s Ceyhan port, which will facilitate broader access to international energy markets.
Moreover, the government has set an ambitious target of increasing oil production capacity to 10 million barrels per day by 2032. With the ongoing Development Road project, Iraq envisions creating a substantial transportation and logistics corridor that connects its southern ports to Turkey and European markets, ultimately fortifying its economic stature in the region.
Through these initiatives, Iraq is not only working towards achieving political stability but is also laying the groundwork for its economic future, promising a more empowered nation.