Iraq orders only national flag at government buildings amid crackdown on militias

Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) – Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi is said to have instructed ministries, government agencies, and public institutions to show only the Iraqi national flag, with other flags prohibited from flying at official sites. The decision comes as Baghdad steps up attempts to reinforce state authority and limit the influence of armed factions, especially those with strong links to Iran. Iran-backed militias, such as Kataib Hezbollah and Harakat Hezbollah al-Nujaba, have maintained a visible presence in Iraq, with their flags and insignia seen at public meetings, roadblocks, and other armed group sites. The alleged limitation would highlight the contrast between Iraqi state institutions and political or military groups, stressing that government buildings should represent the nation rather than specific factions. Since entering office in May 2026, Al-Zaidi has progressively opposed militia authority, pushing for firearms to be solely controlled by the state and warning that armed organizations who refuse to comply might face legal penalties. The government has also taken action against alleged militia-related business interests, including the cancelation of contracts at Mosul International Airport. The moves have heightened tensions with Kataib Hezbollah and other Iran-aligned militias who oppose Baghdad’s disarmament initiatives. The restrictions come amid ongoing regional instability in the aftermath of the US-Iran war earlier this year, which has exposed Iraq to assaults and raised pressure on the government to prevent armed groups from pulling the nation into the fight. For Baghdad, limiting flags at official buildings would be a symbolic step toward bolstering national sovereignty. The greater question is whether the administration can transform such efforts into effective control of armed groups and their weaponry.