Iraq has set a new deadline to bring all weapons under state control. Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi announced that the process must be complete by June 30, 2027.

October 1 marked what he called a ‘serious beginning’ of the disarmament process. The date replaces an earlier September 30 target.

The plan follows the end of the US-led coalition’s military mission in Iraq. Baghdad believes the withdrawal removes the armed groups’ excuse for staying armed.

The first phase will last 90 days. Armed factions are expected to refrain from attacks during this period.

Holdouts include Kataib Hezbollah, Harakat al-Nujaba and Kataib Sayyid al-Shuhada. The groups deny being bound by any government timeline.

Zaidi said only state authorities can decide matters of war and peace. Many analysts doubt the deadline can be met during a regional war.

The original September 30 date coincided with the end of the US-led coalition’s mission. Baghdad argues that the departure of foreign troops removes the militias’ main excuse for staying armed.