Iraq’s prime minister says 3 of 5 armed groups have handed over their weapons

Tarek Chouiref

06 October 2026•Update: 06 October 2026

Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi said Monday that three of five armed groups that agreed to give up their weapons have already done so, while talks continue with the remaining factions.

“Five factions agreed to hand over their weapons, and three of them have already done so. Dialogue is continuing with the others,” al-Zaidi said during a meeting with tribal leaders and dignitaries, according to his office.

He said the government was pressing ahead with efforts to strengthen state authority and prevent any group from undermining it.

“The blood of Iraqis is our responsibility,” al-Zaidi said, stressing that protecting lives and reinforcing state institutions remained central government priorities.

He also called for Iraq’s decisions to remain firmly in Iraqi hands and praised tribal leaders for their role in maintaining stability during periods of unrest.

The announcement comes as Baghdad pushes to bring weapons outside state control under government authority following the end of the US-led international coalition’s military mission in Iraq in late September.

Al-Zaidi said his government was also working to shield Iraq from regional conflicts, saying national unity and independent decision-making were key to the country’s stability.