With a decline in Iranian influence, the Iraqi government is urging armed groups, especially those aligned with the IRI, to disarm and integrate into state forces. Amid regional instability, Iraq aims to maintain control over these factions to secure U.S. cooperation and national sovereignty, as tensions with Iranian proxies rise. Upcoming elections may further impact Iraq’s strategies in managing these armed groups effectively.
As Iranian influence declines in the Middle East, the Iraqi government is urging armed groups, particularly those aligned with the Iran-backed Islamic Resistance in Iraq (IRI), to disarm. Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein stated that armed groups outside governmental control are unacceptable and expressed hope that these factions could integrate into Iraq’s state forces or the officially recognized Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF).
The regional situation is tense, especially with the power void following the Assad regime’s collapse in Syria. Experts, such as Jonathan Schanzer, indicate that Iraq’s government is prompted to act against Iranian militias amidst fears of further regional destabilization. Hussein, however, insists that Iraq will not be the next country to fall.
The IRI consists of Iranian-supported factions engaging in military operations against Israel and U.S. coalition forces. These groups are particularly challenging for the Iraqi government to control and were linked to an attack resulting in the deaths of U.S. service members in January 2024. The PMF, created to combat the Islamic State in 2014, operates under the Iraqi government’s authority and is supported by Iran.
Inna Rudolf, an analyst, highlights ongoing discussions regarding the management of the armed Islamic Resistance factions, especially since their visibility has increased since October 7. Decision-makers face the challenge of neutralizing threats without escalating geopolitical tensions.
Amidst this backdrop, there is growing concern regarding whether Iraq can effectively manage these rogue groups to maintain security cooperation with the United States. Analysts believe that significant reforms within the PMF signify Iran’s waning influence in Iraq, creating potential for more moderate factions to assert their positions. With upcoming elections, Prime Minister Sudani seeks a security framework to maintain a U.S. presence for anti-ISIS operations.
The article discusses Iraq’s strategic efforts to consolidate control over armed groups influenced by Iran. With Iraq facing regional instability and threats from Iranian-backed militias, the Iraqi government aims to integrate these factions into its formal military structure. The analysis also touches on the implications of the shifting balance of power in the Middle East, particularly in light of the Syrian civil war and the weakening of Iranian proxy forces. The Islamic Resistance in Iraq (IRI) poses a significant challenge due to its alignment with Iran, requiring a coordinated response from the Iraqi government to mitigate their influence while ensuring national security. As the political landscape evolves, Iraq’s government is concerned with both internal security and the necessity of maintaining favorable relations with the U.S. amid pressing geopolitical dynamics.
In conclusion, the Iraqi government is taking decisive actions to limit the influence of Iran-backed militias within its borders. The integration of these armed groups into the state structure is critical for Iraq to maintain sovereignty and security. Tensions in the region, particularly regarding the stability of Iranian proxies and the U.S. military presence, underscore the importance of effective governance and collaboration with international partners in the face of potential threats.
Original Source: www.foxnews.com
