Iraq Seeks Control Over Iran-Backed Militias Amid Regional Power Shifts

As Iranian influence dwindles, Iraq seeks to assimilate Iran-backed armed groups into state security forces. Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein highlights the need to eliminate groups outside state control, while experts express concerns over regional stability post-Syrian conflict. Upcoming elections and U.S. relations play a critical role in Iraq’s strategy to maintain security.

With Iranian influence declining in the Middle East, the Iraqi government is aiming to disarm armed groups, including Iran-backed factions within the Islamic Resistance in Iraq (IRI). Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein emphasized the unacceptability of armed groups operating outside state control, expressing hope that these factions would integrate into the national armed forces or join the officially recognized Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF).

The regional tension is palpable due to fears of a power vacuum following the destabilization of neighboring Syria, along with weakened groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. Jonathan Schanzer from the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies remarked that the collapse of the Assad regime influenced Iraq’s decision to confront Iranian militias, as Iraqis question their security in this context. Hussein remains optimistic, stating he does not see Iraq as the next target of destabilization.

The IRI encompasses armed factions linked under the Iran-backed “Axis of Resistance” and poses significant challenges for Iraq, having conducted hostile operations, especially against U.S. forces. The PMF, which arose in response to the Islamic State, operates under the Iraqi state, supported by Iranian resources. This dynamic complicates the situation as some IRI factions have integrated into the PMF structure.

Discussions among Iraqi leaders are centered around addressing the challenges posed by the Islamic Resistance factions, particularly as these groups increased their visibility through military actions since early October. Inna Rudolf, an expert on the PMF from King’s College London, highlighted ongoing efforts to neutralize these factions to prevent further geopolitical tensions.

Despite the weakening of Iranian proxies, concerns grow over potential Israeli responses to these groups within Iraq. Caroline Rose, senior analyst at the New Lines Institute, noted the significant security reforms heralding Iran’s diminished influence, prompting moderate forces and the U.S. to seize momentum in Iraq.

The upcoming elections in Iraq present a critical juncture, as Prime Minister Sudani seeks to solidify U.S. security cooperation amid concerns regarding rogue groups threatening national stability. If Iraq fails to demonstrate control over these factions, sustaining U.S. military presence may become untenable, especially under changing political leaderships.

The article discusses the influence of Iranian-supported armed groups within Iraq amidst a backdrop of diminishing Iranian power in the Middle East. It outlines Iraq’s efforts to consolidate security by integrating these groups into formal state structures. The context includes regional turmoil and its implications for Iraqi sovereignty and stability, especially related to U.S. military cooperation.

In summary, Iraq is actively pursuing a strategy to manage and integrate Iran-backed armed factions within its security framework as Iranian influence wanes. This shift occurs against a backdrop of regional tension and upcoming elections, raising critical questions about Iraq’s ability to maintain stability and security cooperation with the United States amidst rogue elements. The government under Prime Minister Sudani will need to navigate these challenges carefully to avoid potential destabilization.

Original Source: www.foxnews.com

Amelia Caldwell

Amelia Caldwell is a seasoned journalist with over a decade of experience reporting on social justice issues and investigative news. An award-winning writer, she began her career at a small local newspaper before moving on to work for several major news outlets. Amelia has a knack for uncovering hidden truths and telling compelling stories that challenge the status quo. Her passion for human rights activism informs her work, making her a respected voice in the field.

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