Iraqi PM Says U.S. Relationship Will Shift From Military Ties to Economic Partnership

Peregraf- Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi said Wednesday that relations between Iraq and the United States are entering a new phase that will focus on economic cooperation rather than military ties, as Baghdad continues efforts to strengthen state authority and attract investment.

Speaking during an interview, al-Zaidi said combating corruption remains his government's top priority and highlighted ongoing efforts to consolidate security under state institutions.

"The relationship with the United States will transform from a military one into an economic partnership," al-Zaidi said.

The remarks come ahead of an expected visit to Washington next month, where Iraqi and U.S. officials are expected to discuss economic cooperation, investment, energy, and security issues.

Weapons Restriction Efforts Underway

Al-Zaidi also said that most armed factions have already begun transferring their weapons to the state as part of efforts to ensure that arms remain exclusively under government control.

"Most factions have already begun handing over their weapons to the state," he said.

The prime minister added that once all U.S. forces complete their withdrawal from Iraq, there would no longer be any justification for armed groups operating under the banner of resistance.

"After the withdrawal of all U.S. forces, there will be no justification or need for any resistance in Iraq," he said.

His comments come as Baghdad moves forward with plans to integrate armed factions into state institutions and place all weapons under the authority of the Iraqi government.

Oil and Economic Priorities

On energy policy, al-Zaidi said Iraq is seeking greater oil production capacity and hopes OPEC will allow the country to increase output in line with its resources and population size.

"We want OPEC to increase our oil production in a way that is proportionate to Iraq's oil capabilities and the size of its population," he said.

Iraq is OPEC's second-largest oil producer and relies heavily on crude exports for government revenue.

The prime minister's comments reflect his government's broader effort to shift focus toward economic development, investment, anti-corruption measures, and strengthening state institutions as Iraq seeks to move beyond years of conflict and political instability.