The Iraqi Cabinet has approved a law regulating the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), also known as the Hashd al-Shaabi, and decided to submit it to the parliament for voting. The approval was made during the 21st regular session of the Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Ali Fadhil Al-Zaydi. According to a statement from the Prime Minister's media office, the decision was made in recognition of the sacrifices made by PMF members and to organize the administrative framework of the security institutions.
The law consists of 18 articles and aims to define the PMF as a part of the Iraqi armed forces, linked to the Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces. The law had previously been approved by the Cabinet in February 2025, and the parliament had conducted two readings of the bill. The PMF was formed in 2014, following a fatwa from the Supreme Religious Authority, Ali al-Sistani, in response to the emergence of the Islamic State (ISIS).
The PMF has reportedly grown to become a significant force in Iraq, with a budget of 4.5 trillion dinars allocated for 2024. According to the budget law, the PMF has approximately 240,000 members. The organization's formation and growth have been seen as a key factor in the fight against ISIS. The approval of the law is expected to provide a clearer framework for the PMF's operations and role within the Iraqi security forces.
The decision to approve the law and submit it to parliament was made in line with the government's efforts to strengthen the security sector and regulate the activities of the PMF. The law is expected to provide a clearer definition of the PMF's role and responsibilities, as well as its relationship with other security forces in Iraq. The parliament is now expected to vote on the law, which could have significant implications for the country's security and stability.
The PMF has played a significant role in the fight against ISIS, and its members have made substantial sacrifices in the conflict. The approval of the law is seen as a recognition of these sacrifices and an effort to provide a more formal structure for the organization's operations. The law's passage could also help to address concerns about the PMF's activities and ensure greater accountability within the organization.
The Iraqi government has faced significant challenges in recent years, including the fight against ISIS and efforts to stabilize the country's security and economy. The approval of the PMF law is seen as part of these efforts, and is expected to contribute to greater stability and security in the country. The law's implementation will be closely watched by both domestic and international observers.
The approval of the PMF law marks a significant step forward in the Iraqi government's efforts to regulate the security sector and provide a clearer framework for the activities of the PMF. The law's passage and implementation will be critical in determining the future of the PMF and its role within the Iraqi security forces.
Key points
- The Iraqi Cabinet has approved a law regulating the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), also known as the Hashd al-Shaabi.
