policy
Bahaa Al-Araji, head of the Construction and Development Bloc, affirmed that achieving a state monopoly on arms will not happen in a single day, indicating that this strategic initiative could take several months to complete. In a statement, Al-Araji clarified that Iraq hosts two types of foreign forces: the first consists of American forces, while the second comprises forces tasked with protecting embassies, interests, and consulates. He added that international coalition forces are set to withdraw from the country in accordance with previously announced understandings. Al-Araji further explained that the principle of restricting arms to the state has garnered broad national and Iraqi consensus, noting that work on this matter can effectively commence after the withdrawal of foreign forces. He emphasized that this process will require extensive dialogue and time, potentially extending for several months, considering its full completion within one year would be a positive and welcomed development.
