Iraq’s Coordination Framework, a coalition mainly of Shiite parties, focused its latest meeting on the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) Authority Law. According to political sources speaking to Shafaq News on Tuesday, the group discussed how to secure a parliamentary session to advance the bill. The meeting included Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani and most Framework leaders.
They carefully examined the feasibility of passing the PMF Authority Law. A key topic was the effort to gather at least 120 signatures from parliament’s 329 deputies. These signatures would support calling a dedicated parliamentary session to vote on the legislation. Political sources added that the Framework plans to continue discussions soon. Another meeting is scheduled within two days to push this forward.
Framework lawmaker Ibtisam Al-Hilali emphasized the strong push to collect signatures. She said some deputies even plan to attend the parliamentary session wearing PMF military uniforms. However, MP Thaer Mukheef warned that simply collecting signatures will not guarantee a vote on the PMF law. He added that although many deputies support a special session, they have not yet reached a final agreement.
Since August 5, political deadlock has paralyzed the Iraqi parliament. MP Jawad al-Yasari told Shafaq News that the speaker’s office has not issued any directive yet. Therefore, officials have not set an official date to resume sessions on major bills, including the PMF law.
The political stalemate unfolds amid growing U.S. pressure on Iraq’s government to disband the PMF. Iraq officially formed the Popular Mobilization Forces in 2014 to fight ISIS. Over time, the PMF evolved into a strong paramilitary group, deeply embedding itself in Iraq’s security system. Despite this integration, critics continue to challenge the group’s political and militia ties.
The proposed PMF Authority Law aims to regulate the group’s status, benefits, and legal framework. Yet, this law remains highly divisive among Iraq’s leaders. At the same time, the U.S. State Department warned that the legislation might strengthen Iran-backed factions within the PMF. It also said Washington would take “appropriate action” against groups it labels as terrorist organizations.
Clearly, the Popular Mobilization Forces Authority Law has become a central issue in Iraq’s political landscape. The coalition’s efforts to pass the law show how critical this topic is for the country’s future.
