Iraqi militias, particularly Harakat Hezbollah al-Nujaba, are coordinating with Iran to retaliate against Israel, asserting the right to strike from Iraqi territory. Following Israeli attacks, Iranian leadership promises a strong response, potentially using advanced missile technology. The Iraqi government remains cautious, concerned about the implications of regional conflict and the impact on its relations with the U.S. and Iran.
In a recent interview with the Hezbollah-affiliated publication Al-Akhbar, Haidar al-Lami, a representative of the Harakat Hezbollah al-Nujaba militia, affirmed that his group is coordinating closely with Iran to launch strikes against Israel. Al-Lami emphasized that Iran has the right to retaliate against what he termed the “Zionist entity” and asserted that the militia’s attacks on Israel would continue to escalate, employing increasingly advanced weaponry. Furthermore, he indicated that the current focus is on targeting Israel, followed by U.S. military bases, as diplomatic efforts have proven ineffective, resulting in the need for a stronger military response. This statement from Al-Lami follows remarks by Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who pledged a “crushing response” to Israel’s recent incursions. It was reported that Iran could potentially retaliate swiftly, utilizing drones and ballistic missiles in a strike that could possibly be initiated from Iraqi territory before the upcoming U.S. presidential elections. Additional comments from an anonymous Iranian political figure highlighted Iran’s capability to engage Israel from various locations, given its collaboration with Iraqi militia groups. The Iraqi government, while cautious about the rising tension and reluctant to jeopardize its relationships with both the U.S. and Iran, is caught in a complex situation. Reports indicate that the Prime Minister, Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, has been warned by militia groups against exerting pressure to halt their planned actions. The government faces a significant dilemma regarding any retaliatory actions initiated from Iraqi soil, as such actions could provoke Israeli strikes within Iraq. Any military response taken from Iraq would necessitate prior coordination with the official government to preserve peace and avoid conflict escalation.
In the current geopolitical landscape, the relationship between Iranian-backed Iraqi militias and Israel has grown increasingly volatile. Underlining this tension is the recent Israeli attack on Iranian military infrastructure, which has prompted strong rhetoric from both Iranian leaders and Iraqi militia representatives. The intertwining interests of factions within Iraq, Iran, and the broader Middle East complicate any potential responses, particularly given Iraq’s precarious political positioning amidst alliances with both the United States and Iran, both of whom have significant interests in the region.
In summary, the coordination between Iranian militias in Iraq and the Islamic Republic highlights a significant escalation in hostilities directed towards Israel. Haidar al-Lami’s statements reflect a clear intent to retaliate, further complicated by the Iraqi government’s efforts to navigate its delicate alliances. As tensions rise, the possibility of a military confrontation looms, emphasizing the urgency for diplomatic solutions.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
