Iraq Enters New Phase in Effort to Place Weapons Under State Control

Some political groups and armed elements in Iraq are taking a more flexible approach to placing weapons under state control, opening the way for a possible new implementation phase in talks with the government. Officials and interlocutors involved in the discussions say the process could move forward once the cabinet is fully formed and the Eid holiday ends. Several armed groups are preparing to agree on an arrangement that would align them with official state institutions. If reached, the deal would set out a delivery process under government supervision rather than leaving weapons outside state structures. Recent political messaging has reinforced the trend toward bringing arms under the state framework. That shift has helped create a more receptive atmosphere for the talks and for a practical step-by-step implementation plan. Some group leaders are also said to be more willing to proceed after receiving assurances that no legal action will be taken against them and that their financial assets will not be frozen. Those guarantees appear to have eased resistance to the proposed arrangement.