ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - Newly appointed Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi on Thursday outlined plans to reform Iraq’s security sector by restricting arms to state control and called for the return of foreign diplomatic missions to Baghdad.
In a speech to the Iraqi parliament ahead of a vote of confidence in his government, the newly appointed premier emphasized security reform through “monopolizing weapons in the hands of the state.” Zaidi added he would enhance the capabilities of security forces and consolidate citizens’ “confidence in democracy.”
Zaidi further called on all diplomatic missions to “return to their work in Baghdad.”
The statement follows months of deteriorating security conditions fueled by a regional conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. During the war, Iranian-affiliated armed groups in Iraq targeted diplomatic facilities, leading to the closure of several embassies and consulates.
Militias have also carried out attacks on alleged US assets within Iraq and neighboring countries, prompting calls from regional and international leaders for Baghdad to curb militia presence in the country. The strikes have intensified pressure on Baghdad to assert control over armed groups to prevent further regional escalation.
In early April, the US ordered the evacuation of non-essential personnel and family members from the Baghdad embassy due to rising threats, prompting a security alert.