Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) – Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi formed a joint committee on Wednesday involving key armed factions to integrate paramilitary groups into state security institutions and bring their weapons under state control.

According to a statement released by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), the committee is expected to begin its work within the next two days.

The decision was made during a meeting chaired by al-Zaidi and attended by representatives from the Asaib Ahl al-Haq and Kataib al-Imam Ali, two Iran-backed Iraqi Shiite paramilitary organizations.

The meeting addressed approaches to support state institutions and enhance security and stability.

Al-Zaidi noted that the current stage requires concerted measures to bolster government authority and enhance its institutions. He emphasized that Iraq’s security situation has improved significantly, setting the basis for ongoing development and reconstruction.

Asaib Ahl al-Haq and Kataib al-Imam Ali agreed to sever structural ties with the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) and put their weapons under state control.

The move took place a few days after Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr stated that his armed force, Saraya al-Salam (Peace Brigades), would break from his political movement and incorporate into governmental institutions.

Other significant armed organizations, most notably Kataib Hezbollah, have publicly opposed disarmament, citing the continuous presence of foreign forces in the country.

The decision was made after al-Zaidi urged all armed organizations to function under Iraq’s official institutions.