Tensions are escalating in Iraq after the US military struck two sites belonging to the Kataeb Hezbollah paramilitary group. Experts predict Baghdad could turn unfriendly to Washington if forces withdraw due to the rising tensions.
Following the airstrike, the Iraqi government vowed to “protect the Iraqi people” and labeled the attack on the army and Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) as “aggressive.”
Sources reveal that Iraqi armed factions are gearing up for a significant confrontation with US forces.
On Wednesday, US forces targeted Kataeb Hezbollah sites in response to attacks by the Iranian-backed militia, including the assault on the Ain Al-Asad Air Base on January 20.
US Central Command (CENTCOM) reported conducting airstrikes on three facilities used by Iran-affiliated militias in Iraq.
Last Saturday, the US military disclosed that Iran-backed factions launched “multiple ballistic missiles” at Ain Al-Asad, causing one Iraqi casualty and potential injuries among US forces.
The situation is rapidly evolving, heightening tensions between the US and factions in the region.
While factions didn’t disclose their losses from the recent US attack on two locations, sources confirmed injuries in Najaf.
In Al-Qaim, one member of the PMF was reported dead.
There are unverified reports on Iraqi and Arab militants’ deaths in the US strike on Jurf Al-Sakhr.
Significant material and human losses have been reported, confirmed an Iraqi officer, who requested anonymity.
The factions in Jurf Al-Sakhr, previously a battleground against ISIS, keep their activities secret and restrict journalist access.
The US views Jurf Al-Sakhr as a hub for Iranian-backed Iraqi factions, housing training centers, weapon depots, and missile facilities.
As Shiite forces push for the removal of US troops from Iraq, experts worry about the potential consequences if this decision is made amid escalating tensions.
Ihsan Faily, a political science professor at Mustansiriya University, believes it’s too early to talk about a quick US withdrawal from Iraq.
Faily notes that there is no national political consensus for the US withdrawal, despite a past recommendation from the parliament.
The professor argues that what might happen after the withdrawal, especially regarding the economic impact due to the dollar crisis, is concerning.
With Washington controlling oil revenue and potential political fallout, Iraq risks losing its ties with the West.
Faily explains, “If the Americans leave, Arab and foreign embassies might also depart, along with NATO forces, and Iraq could face sanctions as a country diverging from the international order.”
