U.S. Takes Tough Stance on Iranian-Backed Militias in Iraq
The Trump administration is reportedly increasing pressure on Iraq to disband the Iranian-backed Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), which are integrated into the Iraqi government. This move follows a series of attacks targeting U.S. military personnel and facilities.
Amid ongoing uncertainty surrounding the ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran, the administration has interrupted the flow of U.S. dollars to Baghdad. This shift aims to address the growing tensions between Washington and Baghdad, potentially diminishing Iran’s influence in the area and promoting U.S. objectives against Tehran.
A State Department spokesperson communicated to the Iraqi government, emphasizing, “The U.S. remains committed to countering Iran’s destabilizing activities in Iraq and protecting our interests from Iranian-aligned militias. We have concerns regarding the Iraqi government’s failure to address this terrorism.”
While acknowledging the efforts of Iraqi security forces in response to attacks, the spokesperson highlighted that certain Iraqi officials continue to provide support to these militias. This ongoing support has creates complications in U.S.-Iraqi relations. The U.S. asserts it will not tolerate attacks on its interests and expects immediate action from Iraq to dismantle these militias.
Reports revealed last week about new security and economic sanctions imposed on Iraq, which include a halt to the U.S. security cooperation program and the suspension of nearly $500 million in currency shipments from Iraqi oil sales. This is the second instance of blocked payments to Iraq’s central bank since the conflict with Iran escalated late February.
The Treasury Department has refrained from commenting on the halted transactions.
Iraqi officials maintain that their partnership with the U.S. is crucial and rooted in shared interests. They assert that both nations have collaborated in defeating ISIS, underscoring the significance of their alliance.
Addressing the issue of armed groups, one Iraqi official noted, “The situation is complex, with intertwining political and social layers. Thus, solving this requires a careful approach that acknowledges the local context and bolsters state authority.”
Discussions surrounding the potential return of former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, who has close ties to Iran, have generated concern within the administration.
Kurdish officials pointed out that while Shiites largely influence the decision on Iraq’s prime minister, both Iran and the U.S. also play crucial roles in this process. They indicated that the U.S. seems more determined to influence outcomes this time.
This is particularly essential given Iraq’s reliance on oil revenues, which are mainly managed through U.S. financial systems. The way Washington handles these funds could significantly alter dynamics among Shiite factions.
Former Deputy Prime Minister spokesman Entifad Kambar asserted the urgency in dismantling the PMF, labeling it an immediate threat to the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad.
He further claimed that the Iraqi government is effectively aiding these groups by providing them with national identity cards and vehicles, enabling them to access secure areas and pose a risk to not just U.S. interests but also Iraqi state institutions.
In a recent development, the U.S. Department of Justice announced a $10 million reward for the leader of the pro-Iranian militia Harakat Ansar Allah al-Aufiyah (HAAA). The U.S. Embassy denounced the group’s actions which include targeting diplomats and undermining Iraqi sovereignty.
