Iraq's Maliki says threat-based language toward armed groups has ended

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Nouri al-Maliki, leader of the State of Law Coalition, said the language of challenge, threats and intimidation previously directed at armed groups is no longer in use, arguing that such rhetoric no longer produces results. In remarks to Sharq television, Maliki said work is underway to organize and bring under state control weapons that should be in the hands of the Iraqi state, adding that the controversial phrase "take the weapon" was avoided because it would have created a psychological and practical impact on the other side. Maliki stressed that neither the government nor armed groups benefit from launching attacks against each other, and said this understanding has opened space for dialogue and negotiation. He said the process will distinguish between heavy, medium and light weapons and address arms intended for internal and external targets, with a commission established to handle the file with armed groups. The State of Law leader had warned in late August that turning the file into a confrontation would jeopardize the country's stability. Several factions, including the Harakat Hezbollah al-Nujaba, the Hezbollah Brigades and the Sayyid al-Shuhada Brigades, have refused to surrender their weapons. The State Administration Coalition announced that after a specified date, any non-state armed activity will be addressed under counterterrorism law.