Aboudi tells EU envoys Iraq’s constitution bars groups that threaten neighbours

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s constitution does not permit armed groups that threaten the security of neighbouring countries or the wider region, National Security Adviser Qasim al-Aboudi told European Union diplomats in Baghdad on Wednesday.

Aboudi said the government was continuing to implement “the decisions of its security program related to restricting weapons to the state” and strengthening security agreements with friendly countries to create conditions for economic activity and the entry of international firms, according to a statement from his office. He met EU Ambassador Clemens Semtner along with ambassadors and chargés d’affaires from member states. Semtner said the EU was ready to support Iraq in implementing its ministerial programme and reform agenda.

Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi has set Sept. 30, when the U.S.-led coalition mission ends, as the date for bringing armed groups outside state institutions under government authority. A government committee has been registering personnel and inventorying weapons held by participating factions, including preparations to transfer heavy and medium weapons to state facilities.

Saraya al-Salam, Asaib Ahl al-Haq and the Imam Ali Battalions have moved toward compliance; Harakat al-Nujaba, Kataib Hezbollah and Kataib Sayyid al-Shuhada have refused while U.S. forces remain. The State Administration Coalition has said armed activity outside state authority after Sept. 30 could be handled under the Anti-Terrorism Law, while several political leaders have urged dialogue instead.