An Iraqi legislator says the United States is preventing Baghdad from acquiring advanced arms and military technologies, hailing the Popular Mobilization Units (PMU) as an essential component of security in the Arab country.

“The United States is obstructing Iraq’s efforts to obtain [sophisticated] weapons from any major power. Iraq faces restrictions on diversification of its weapons suppliers, including agreements concluded with South Korea,” Mohammed Hassan al-Shammari said.

He added that any attempt by the Iraqi government to acquire weapons and defense systems from modern armament manufacturers other than American companies is torpedoed by Washington.

“This places constraints on the ability of the Iraqi armed forces and does not allow them to develop their capabilities and diversify their weapons suppliers,” Shammari said, adding that countries like Russia and Turkey are willing to supply such weapons to Iraq.

Diversification, he went on, is fairly essential in order to develop Iraq’s defense capabilities.

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He also highlighted the capabilities of the Iraqi armed forces in the face of security threats, saying, “The Iraqi Ministry of Defense has the ability to confront any threat, ranging from Daesh to other terrorist groups. Moreover, the Popular Mobilization Units play a major role in ensuring national security and defending the country.”

“Arming the army and security forces with proper and advanced weapons remains a priority. The Ministry of Defense is working on the development of air defense systems, air force, and other military capabilities in order to enhance Iraq’s ability to protect its sovereignty, airspace, and borders,” Shammari stated.

Iraq has faced ongoing challenges with its outdated and limited air defense systems, while the threat from drones and missiles has been rising significantly.

On October 13, Sabah al-Numan, the spokesperson for the commander-in-chief of Iraq’s armed forces, stated that Baghdad had achieved “tangible progress” in acquiring new air defense systems.

He said the first batch would arrive within six months and be deployed across the country.

The package will consist of advanced radar technology, interceptor weapons, and aircraft, as part of a broader initiative to enhance Iraq’s oversight of its airspace.