US to Iraq: Terrorist militias undermine sovereignty
Shafaq News– Baghdad
The United States warned on Friday that the inclusion of Iran-aligned “terrorist militias” in Iraq’s government in any capacity is incompatible with a strong US–Iraq partnership.
During a meeting with National Wisdom (Al-Hikma) Movement leader Ammar Al-Hakim, Chargé d’Affaires Joshua Harris said Washington would continue to press for immediate action to dismantle militias loyal to “foreign agendas.”
Such groups jeopardize Iraq’s sovereignty, stability, and economic livelihood, he added.
#CDA Harris met with Hikma Trend leader Ammar al-Hakim to consult on the shared interests of safeguarding Iraqi sovereignty, defeating terrorism, bolstering regional security, and strengthening economic ties that deliver benefits for Americans and Iraqis. The CDA reiterated that…
— U.S. Embassy Baghdad (@USEmbBaghdad) January 9, 2026
Last week, Mark Savaya, the US envoy to Iraq, outlined Washington’s priorities for 2026, pledging cooperation with Baghdad under Iraq’s constitution while calling for an end to what he described as “militias" and "uncontrolled weapons.”
Read more: Iraq’s armed factions and the disarmament debate: Why unity masks deep divisions
