Saudi Arabia, Middle East neighbors pressure Iraq to rein in Iranian-backed militias - analysis

Neighboring countries, including Saudi Arabia, Syria, Jordan, and Kuwait, are reportedly intensifying pressure on Iraq to curb the activities of Iranian-backed militias. These groups have been using Iraqi territory as a staging ground to launch attacks against regional states, posing a significant security challenge.

In recent weeks, these militias have targeted Saudi Arabia and issued threats toward Syria. Their actions have complicated Iraq's delicate geopolitical position, particularly as its newly appointed Prime Minister-designate Ali al-Zaidi seeks to balance relations with Iran and other regional powers. Al-Zaidi's recent travel itinerary, which included visits to the U.S., Iran, and Turkey, was reportedly disrupted by these militia attacks, which also prompted retaliatory strikes by Saudi Arabia and the U.S. across Iraq.

The militias, including prominent groups like Kataib Hezbollah, Asaib Ahl al-Haq, and Harakat Hezbollah al-Nujaba, operate under the umbrella of the Popular Mobilization Forces. The Badr organization, the largest militia, is notably not sanctioned by the U.S. This complex structure allows the militias to act with a degree of impunity, often hiding behind the Iraqi state after carrying out attacks. Any strikes against militia bases are viewed as direct assaults on Iraq itself, creating a situation analogous to Hezbollah's influence in Lebanon but integrated within Iraq's governmental and security apparatus.

This dynamic makes it difficult to dismantle the militias' influence. The situation is further contextualized by the ongoing Arbaeen pilgrimage, a major Shi'ite religious gathering attracting millions to Iraq, including many from Iran. The pilgrimage occurs amidst broader regional tensions, including the aftermath of a U.S.-Israeli attack on Iran and prior domestic unrest in Iran related to economic hardship and sanctions.