As Iraq tries to rein in paramilitary groups, oil sector threats remain

ERBIL/BASRA - Some of Iraq's most powerful paramilitary groups say they plan to put their weapons under state control — a prospective change in posture with implications for Iraq's relationship with the U.S. and for international companies operating in the oil sector throughout Iraq.

In statements issued June 2, Asaib Ahl al-Haq and Kataib Imam Ali announced they would sever ties with the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) and form committees to inventory arms and personnel. They followed a statement by Muqtada al-Sadr, on May 27, announcing the "complete disassociation" of his Saraya al-Salam formations from his political movement and "their complete integration into the state and the general authority responsible for military formations."