Iraq's PM-designate Zidi works to keep Iraq out of regional war, tighten control over armed groups

TEHRAN, Iran — Iraq's prime minister-designate Ali al-Zidi is working to keep Iraq out of a regional war and bring armed groups under tighter state control, according to a report by Alhurra. His stated priority is preventing Iraqi territory from becoming part of any new escalation in the Iran-Israel-US tensions. The Baghdad government has warned armed groups against taking any action from Iraqi soil. Zidi has avoided direct confrontation with Iran-aligned militias, opting instead for political dialogue and intermediaries to call for restraint. Warnings have been directed especially at Kataib Hezbollah and Harakat al-Nujaba, seen as Tehran's closest allies in Iraq. Communications with militia commanders have intensified amid concerns that any new regional clashes could spill into Iraq. Iraqi authorities have cautioned that activities endangering national security or dragging the country into a fresh regional conflict could result in legal sanctions. The effort is part of Zidi's stated agenda to reinforce state authority and preserve government control over foreign policy and military decisions. No further details on next steps were immediately available.