Exclusive: Leaked Message Shows MPs Preparing to Wear PMF Uniforms for Parliament Vote

Peregraf

Peregraf has obtained a leaked WhatsApp message sent to a parliamentary group chat, revealing that dozens of Iraqi lawmakers are preparing to wear Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) uniforms during the upcoming vote on legislation that would formalize the group’s status.

The message, circulated by the PMF Media Directorate and posted in the parliament’s WhatsApp group, asked members to provide their names and uniform sizes so their names could be embroidered in advance. The list included more than 50 MPs, indicating symbolic support for the controversial bill.

The revelation comes as Washington and London warn that institutionalizing the PMF could undermine Iraq’s security institutions and strengthen Iran-backed factions. On August 5, U.S. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce warned the legislation would "institutionalize armed groups linked to attacks on U.S. personnel."

The debate has intensified after a deadly incident on July 27, when fighters from Kataib Hezbollah’s 45th and 46th Brigades—operating under the PMF umbrella—stormed Baghdad’s Karkh Agriculture Department without authorization, killing three people and injuring several others. A government probe accused the brigades of corruption and collusion with the facility’s director.

Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani dismissed the brigade commanders, ordered investigations into senior PMF leadership, and referred perpetrators to court. Both the United States and Iraq’s Shiite Coordination Framework condemned the incident, amplifying calls for stricter oversight of militias.

Tensions have spilled into Iraq’s foreign relations. On August 10, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned the United Kingdom’s Ambassador, Irfan Siddiq, after he said in a televised interview that the PMF’s mission ended with the defeat of ISIS. Baghdad described his remarks as "contrary to diplomatic norms" and interference in domestic affairs.

The leaked WhatsApp message obtained by Peregraf underscores the extent of parliamentary backing for the bill. Supporters see the legislation as recognition of the Hashd al-Shaabi’s sacrifices in the war against ISIS, while critics argue it risks cementing the power of Iran-aligned militias and complicating Iraq’s ties with Western allies.

The parliamentary vote is expected to be a decisive moment, shaping both Iraq’s internal security structure and its international relationships.