Iraq's Zidani Readies Three Files for Washington Visit, Radio Monte Carlo Reports

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani has prepared three files for discussion during his upcoming visit to Washington, Radio Monte Carlo reported Thursday, citing sources in Baghdad. The first file requests a timeline exceeding one year for the disarmament of Iran-backed armed groups and the integration of the Popular Mobilization Forces into official state security structures. The second file, based on information from the Coordination Framework, proposes a Lebanon-style initiative linking weapons nationalization to U.S. political support. Al-Sudani plans to travel to Washington with a delegation of more than 100 businesspeople to present an economic initiative seeking investment at "unprecedented" levels, according to the radio report. The prime minister argues these investments are necessary both for the success of the disarmament plan and to support Iraq's economy, which has faced severe strain due to regional tensions. Baghdad welcomed the cessation of mutual attacks between Iran and Israel following the pause in military operations, the report said. However, officials expressed concern that Iran-backed armed groups could rejoin any renewed fighting, potentially undermining al-Sudani's weapons nationalization effort. The Islamic Resistance Coordination body stated it remains "continuously ready" to participate effectively if hostilities resume.