US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Tuesday that the influence and dominance of armed militias remain the most significant challenge facing Iraq, while signaling that Washington is prepared to give the country’s incoming prime minister an opportunity to succeed if key US concerns are addressed.

Speaking during a meeting with members of Congress, Rubio outlined the US administration’s approach toward Iraq’s anticipated new government and the security challenges it faces.

“The biggest challenge Iraq faces is the presence, influence, and dominance of militias,” Rubio said, arguing that armed groups continue to wield considerable power within the country, a longstanding concern for Washington.

Rubio said the United States intends to take a constructive approach toward Iraq’s next prime minister, emphasizing that Washington wants to support the new government’s efforts to achieve stability and reform.

“We want to give Iraq’s prime minister a chance to succeed,” Rubio said, adding that continued US support would depend on progress in addressing concerns related to armed groups and their activities.

According to Rubio, Washington expects Iraq’s next government to take meaningful steps toward strengthening state authority and resolving issues linked to militia influence.

His remarks came as several factions affiliated with the so-called “Islamic Resistance in Iraq” announced on Tuesday their intention to separate from the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) and hand over their weapons to the federal government. The announcement has fueled debate over the future role of armed groups and the state’s control over security institutions.

The United States has repeatedly urged successive Iraqi governments to consolidate state control over weapons and security agencies, arguing that armed groups operating outside official command structures undermine Iraq’s sovereignty and contribute to regional instability.

US officials have also called on Baghdad to curb militia influence following a series of attacks targeting American interests and coalition facilities in Iraq, stressing that all armed actors should operate under the authority of the Iraqi state.