The Iraqi government has warned armed groups that refuse to place their weapons under state control that they will face legal measures, as Baghdad moves toward a Sept. 30 deadline aimed at establishing a state monopoly on arms.

Government spokesperson Haider Aboudi said Monday that authorities are continuing negotiations with armed factions while preparing to enforce the policy through constitutional and legal mechanisms.

“Any group that refuses to disarm will be dealt with according to the law,” Aboudi said at a press conference, stressing that weapons must ultimately remain under the authority of the Iraqi state.

Prime Minister Ali Zaidi is personally overseeing efforts to resolve the issue, Aboudi said, describing the government’s objective as building a state governed by institutions rather than competing centers of power.

The warning comes after the State Administration Alliance, which includes Iraq’s major political blocs, renewed its call for all weapons to be placed under government control.

The alliance has also warned that groups operating outside official state institutions or threatening national stability could be designated as outlawed organizations and face legal action.

Although some armed factions have expressed reservations about the disarmament process, Aboudi said the government remains committed to the Sept. 30 deadline.

The issue has gained urgency as Baghdad seeks to prevent Iraqi territory from being used to launch attacks against neighboring countries. Government officials have repeatedly argued that decisions concerning war and peace must remain exclusively in the hands of state institutions.

Iraqi military and security forces remain on heightened alert as the deadline approaches and regional tensions continue.

Several security commanders have reportedly had their leave canceled amid preparations for possible developments related to the weapons issue and the broader regional security situation.

Aboudi said Baghdad is determined to ensure that Iraqi territory is not used as a platform for attacks against neighboring states, linking the weapons issue directly to Iraq’s sovereignty and its regional diplomatic relations.

Aboudi also confirmed that Prime Minister Zaidi has received an official invitation to visit Saudi Arabia, although no date has yet been announced.

The invitation comes amid heightened tensions following strikes on positions belonging to the Popular Mobilization Forces and concerns over possible retaliatory attacks launched from Iraqi territory.

Baghdad has sought to reassure regional partners that it will prevent Iraqi territory from being used for attacks while continuing diplomatic engagement with Riyadh.

Addressing domestic issues, Aboudi rejected reports that public-sector employees could be moved to a 45-day salary payment cycle.

He said the government remains committed to regular salary payments and that its ministerial reform program is continuing.

Recent meetings of the State Administration Alliance, he added, have focused on strengthening coordination between Iraq’s political forces and the government.