Iraq moves to dissolve Sinjar Resistance Units, hand Mount Sinjar security to federal forces and absorb 4,200-5,000 members individually

Iraqi authorities held a ceremony in the Sinjar Mountains to dissolve the military structure of the Sinjar Resistance Units (YBS) and transfer security of Mount Sinjar to federal forces. Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi oversaw the event.

About 4,200 to 5,000 YBS members are to join Iraqi state forces as individuals, not intact units, serving in the army, police, the Popular Mobilization Forces and community police. All YBS checkpoints, bases and headquarters on the mountain, including Chil Mera, are being handed over to Iraqi troops.

Government spokesman Sabah al-Numan said the move is part of a plan to bring all weapons under state control and opens a “new phase” of security in Sinjar. YBS is an offshoot of the PKK terrorist organization.