CNN: Iraqi militias join Iranian forces to support crackdown

Iraqi militias have joined Iranian forces in suppressing nationwide protests, according to Iraqi and European security sources. 

Nearly 5,000 fighters from major Iraqi militias reportedly crossed into Iran through two southern border points: the Shaib crossing in Maysan province and the Zurbatiya crossing in Wasit province, CNN reports.

A European military source confirmed to CNN that around 800 Shiite fighters entered Iran from Iraq’s Diyala, Maysan, and Basra provinces under the guise of religious pilgrimages, joining efforts to assist Iranian authorities.

The Iraqi Observatory for Rights and Freedom said that waves of Iran-backed Iraqi fighters have been entering Iran since violent demonstrations erupted in the country nearly three weeks ago.

European military assessments indicate these forces belong to Tehran-loyal groups, including Kataib Hezbollah, Harakat Hezbollah al-Nujaba, Kataib Sayyid al-Shuhada, and the Badr Organisation. These militias are part of Iraq’s Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF) umbrella, which operates with close ties to Iran.

Reports suggest the fighters have been deployed to sensitive regions in Iran, including Hamedan, where they are reportedly participating in operations against protestors.

Earlier this month, Iran International reported that Iran-backed Iraqi militias had begun recruiting and mobilising fighters to support the crackdown. 

Hundreds of militiamen from groups such as Kataib Hezbollah, Harakat al-Nujaba, Kataib Sayyid al-Shuhada, and the Badr Organisation were reportedly sent into Iran through multiple crossings. 

They were initially gathered in Ahvaz under the pretence of pilgrimage before being dispatched to various areas across the country.

By Jeyhun Aghazada