Explainer-Why is US ally Iraq unable to disarm Iran's militia allies?

AI Summary

Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi faces challenges in disarming Iran-backed Shi'ite militias amid pressure to hand over their weapons before the withdrawal of U.S.-led international coalition forces. This may lead to a credibility crisis for Zaidi while tensions between Iraq, Iran, and the U.S. remain high.

By Michael Georgy and Ahmed Rasheed DUBAI/BAGHDAD, Sept 9 - Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi could face a credibility crisis if Iran-backed Shi'ite militias fail to heed his call to hand over their weapons to the state. After a July meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House, Zaidi pledged to disarm the powerful groups by September 30, the same date scheduled for the withdrawal of the remaining U.S.-led international coalition forces from Iraq.