Sit-in launched in Basra demanding passage of Popular Mobilization law

BASRA, Iraq — A grassroots movement in Basra has begun an open sit-in in front of the provincial headquarters of the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), demanding the enactment of a long-stalled law governing the paramilitary organization. Movement leader Sheikh Muqtada al-Mansouri said the protest would begin next Tuesday and continue until the legislation is passed. Al-Mansouri warned that if the law is not issued, the sit-in will be moved in front of the relevant state institutions, where similar demonstrations will also be held. He said the movement's objective is not to place weapons under state monopoly, but only to secure the passage of the PMF law and to define the legal rights of its members. The protest reflects ongoing pressure from Iraqi groups backing formal legislation for the paramilitary force, which was formally incorporated into Iraq's security forces in 2016. No further details on the planned sit-in or official response were immediately available.