ERBIL, Kurdistan Region of Iraq - Ammar al-Hakim, leader of the Wisdom Movement, dismissed claims about significant political changes in Iraq, such as the dissolution of the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), as “Facebook talk.”

Hakim reiterated his support for the PMF, calling rumors of their dissolution “false”, and added that no such plans have been discussed by international or regional political leaders.

The PMF or Hashd al-Shaabi was formed upon a call by Shiite cleric Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani soon after the Islamic State (ISIS) took over large swathes of territory in Iraq. The force has been officially incorporated into the regular Iraqi defense forces, enjoying similar privileges as the Iraqi army.

Speaking during a session hosted by the Political Awareness Club of the Mowj Organization in Najaf, Hakim emphasized that maintaining stability in Iraq is a priority for the international community.

“There is a global interest in preserving Iraq’s stability,” Hakim said, adding that “any chaos in Iraq would spread throughout the region, something neighboring countries strongly oppose.” He also noted that the current power-sharing system, which gives the largest political component a leading role in governance, is expected to remain intact.

Hakim dismissed claims of US plans to target Iraq’s government, stating that the current American administration is focused on two key objectives: ensuring Israel’s security and encouraging Iran to align with regional states.

“We have not heard from those close to the administration about any intention to topple the Iranian regime,” he said. “Instead, there are efforts to pressure Iran into negotiating, using economic and security measures as leverage.”

On Iraq’s internal politics, Hakim addressed the future of the Electoral Commission, whose mandate ends on January 7 during parliament’s recess. He warned of a potential administrative vacuum if its term is not extended or replacements are not appointed.

“There is a general trend toward extending the council’s mandate to ensure elections proceed as planned,” he said.

Regarding the electoral law, Hakim ruled out major amendments, describing the current system of multiple districts and individual voting as unfair and destabilizing.

“The existing law has disrupted balances and jeopardized political stability,” he said. “There is no political agreement to change it at this time.”