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Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi Faces Challenges Disarming Iran-Backed Militias Amid New U.S. Sanctions

Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi is struggling to disarm Iran-backed militias as the Trump administration intensifies economic pressure on Tehran. While the administration announced a sustained campaign to sever Iran's economic lifelines, Iraq remains a critical economic hub for the Iranian regime. Ali al-Zaidi, who was personally embraced by President Trump at the White House in July, aims to have all militias disarm or integrate into the state by September 30. However, experts note that the heavy influence of Iran-backed groups makes this difficult, as these militias function as significant economic entities. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned that nations facilitating interactions with the regime should expect isolation. Despite the administration's efforts to choke off illicit cash networks, Iraq's cash-based economy and large border with Iran make full control difficult. The Iraqi government seeks to make the militias' presence legitimate, hoping that without a U.S. troop presence, the groups will lose their justification for operating independently.

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