Media: Iranian-backed militia groups in Iraq agree to disarm To Avoid U.S. Airstrikes

Several powerful Iranian-backed militia groups in Iraq are reportedly prepared to disarm for the first time in a bid to de-escalate rising tensions with U.S., according to senior commanders and Iraqi officials. 

The decision follows consistent warnings from U.S. officials, urging the Iraqi government to take action against the militias since President Donald Trump's administration took office in January, Caliber.Az reports per Reuters.

The militias, part of an umbrella group called the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, have long been backed by Iran’s elite Revolutionary Guards (IRGC). The groups, which are made up of around 50,000 fighters equipped with long-range missiles and anti-aircraft weapons, have been blamed for numerous attacks on U.S. forces and Israel in Iraq and Syria.

Iraq’s Prime Minister, Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, has been in advanced talks with militia leaders, with discussions indicating that the groups are considering complying with U.S. demands for disarmament. Shi'ite Muslim politician Izzat al-Shahbndar, close to the Iraqi government, stated that the factions are aware of the risk of U.S. airstrikes and are willing to consider disbanding to avoid further conflict.

The shift marks a significant change for the militias, who have typically resisted U.S. pressure. However, some commanders, speaking anonymously, expressed concern about the potential for violence escalating if tensions are not properly addressed.

Despite these developments, an American official expressed scepticism, warning that the militias have previously suspended their attacks under pressure, but there were doubts about the sustainability of any disarmament process.

The situation comes at a crucial time for Tehran’s regional influence, which has been facing challenges following the Gaza war and attacks on Iran’s proxies across the Middle East. In Iraq, the militias that emerged in the aftermath of the 2003 U.S. invasion remain a powerful force, with Iraqi authorities caught between maintaining relations with both Iran and the U.S.

Further discussions are expected to continue on the potential integration of the militias into the Iraqi armed forces or their transformation into political entities, though no formal agreements have yet been made.

By Aghakazim Guliyev