By Payraw Anwar
The United States still remains a key player in Iraq’s political and security landscape. Since the fall of the Ba’ath regime, U.S.–Iraq relations have experienced ups and downs, often influenced by regional dynamics—particularly U.S.–Iran tensions. Notably, following the killing of Qasem Soleimani, the Iraqi parliament voted to expel all foreign forces, including American troops, from the country.
Today, a new point of contention has emerged over the proposed legislation to formally integrate and legalize the Popular Mobilization Units (PMU) into Iraq’s official military structure. The bill has already been read twice in parliament, signaling serious legislative momentum. Washington strongly opposes the move, warning Baghdad against legalizing the PMU, a position that has further strained bilateral relations.
Sudani’s attempt to the PMU Issue
Current Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani faces this challenge amid preparations for Iraq’s upcoming general elections, scheduled for next November. His handling of the PMU bill is shaped by both political calculations and diplomatic considerations as follows:
1. Election Strategy: Sudani recently formed his own political bloc to compete in the next elections. As he lacked such a base when first appointed, securing parliamentary seats is essential to maintaining influence in both the legislative and executive branches.
2. Leadership Image: By seeking to navigate the PMU controversy, Sudani aims to project himself as a strong, statesman and capable leader who can resolve Iraq’s disputes, avoid confrontation with the U.S., and safeguard national stability as well as national security. A successful resolution could serve as a key campaign narrative, bolstering his image during the election season.
While Sudani has proposed amending certain provisions of the bill to appease Washington, U.S. officials remain skeptical. They view the legislation as a pathway to merging PMU forces with the Iraqi army—potentially undermining the country’s formal military chain of command.
The Militia Question in Iraq
The PMU was established in 2014 following a call by Iraq’s Supreme Religious Leader in response to the (ISIS) Islamic State’s capture of large swaths of territory, including Mosul and some other parts of Iraq. Alongside the U.S.-led coalition and Kurdish Peshmerga forces, the PMU played a role in defeating ISIS militarily.
However, Washington sees no justification for granting the PMU full legal status within Iraq’s armed forces. U.S. concerns stem from several factors including:
• Security Risks: Some PMU factions have threatened and attacked U.S. military facilities in Iraq under various pretexts.
• Regional Implications: In the context of heightened or escalation regional tensions, the U.S. views the PMU as aligned with Iranian interests, potentially destabilizing Iraq’s sovereignty.
• Kurdistan Tensions: PMU-affiliated groups have launched drone attacks on Kurdistan Region targets, including recent strikes on oil fields in Erbil and Duhok. These attacks disrupted production and coincided with sensitive Baghdad–Erbil negotiations over oil exports, civil servant salaries, and budget allocations.
In essence, Washington regards the PMU not only as a challenge to U.S. interests in Iraq but also as a threat to Iraq’s own institutional stability and security.