Baghdad – The Sadiqoun parliamentary bloc, representing the Iran-aligned Asaib Ahl al-Haq faction, called on the Iraqi government to speed up the approval of the long-delayed Service and Retirement Law for PMF members. At a press conference, Sadiqoun leader Habib al-Halawi urged the government to formally resend the draft bill to Parliament. He requested lawmakers to schedule the legislation for the nearest parliamentary session.
Halawi stressed that the Service and Retirement Law for PMF is not a special privilege for any group. Instead, it serves as a recognition of the sacrifices made by martyrs, the wounded, and those who fought. He said the law respects their rights and honors their service.
These remarks followed recent comments from Parliament Speaker Mahmoud al-Mashhadani. Al-Mashhadani claimed that the United States obstructed the bill’s progress. He also expressed opposition to any efforts to restructure the Popular Mobilization Forces.
Back in March, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani withdrew the draft law from Parliament. He explained the move aimed to ease political tensions and prevent further disruptions in legislative sessions. During that period, disputes over the law’s placement on the agenda increasingly stalled parliamentary meetings.
Now, the call for approval of the Service and Retirement Law for PMF has gained new urgency. Many see the law as essential to supporting Iraq’s paramilitary forces, who played a significant role in fighting extremist groups. Yet, political disagreements continue to delay its passage.
In conclusion, the Service and Retirement Law for PMF remains a contentious issue within Iraq’s Parliament. Its approval could help solidify rights for fighters but requires consensus among divided lawmakers. The government and parliamentary leaders face mounting pressure to resolve the issue soon.
Moving forward, resolving the deadlock over them will require political compromise. Without swift action, delays could further strain Iraq’s fragile political balance. Lawmakers must prioritize this legislation to honor the sacrifices of PMF members and maintain stability.
