Iraq’s parliament approves the government of Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi, whose programme includes a pledge to establish a state monopoly on weapons. Sources report that Zaidi says Iraq’s security apparatus should be reformed by restricting weapons to state control and strengthening the capability of the security forces.
The approval comes after a period of political deadlock, with Zaidi designated earlier and then presenting his government for parliamentary vote. All accounts link the renewed focus on arms and security to increased external pressure, particularly from the United States, which is urging Baghdad to dismantle or disarm Iran-backed groups operating in Iraq.
Iran and the United States both publicly signal their willingness to work with the new administration. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi congratulates the Iraqi government and says expanding ties between Tehran and Baghdad is a priority. A US diplomat also states Washington is ready to work with Zaidi on shared goals, including efforts against terrorism.
Overall, the reporting frames the parliamentary approval and the arms-monopoly pledge as central to Iraq’s approach to security and foreign influence as international pressure increases.
