Media: Iraqi pro-Iranian militias on high alert, prepared to strike US bases

Several pro-Iranian militias in Iraq have entered a heightened state of alert and repositioned their forces in anticipation of possible military action against US targets, the Lebanese newspaper Al-Akhbar reported on June 23, citing sources in Baghdad.

The militias have moved combat equipment to secure locations and completed logistical preparations for what they describe as "precise attacks" on American bases, should they receive the order from the leadership of the Iran-backed axis, Caliber.Az reports, citing Ynet.

A commander from one of the groups told the media that the potential response would be "painful" and that any retaliation against the US could start from Iraqi territory. The commander also emphasised that Iraqi militias are full partners in decision-making within the axis, not merely agents of Tehran.

The United States maintains around 2,500 troops in Iraq, stationed at various installations including Al-Asad and Erbil air bases. The US forces are part of the international coalition supporting Iraq in the fight against the Islamic State (IS) group.

Although Iraq’s government maintains strong ties with Iran, it is also a strategic partner of the United States. Baghdad and Washington have agreed on a phased timetable for the withdrawal of coalition forces from the country.

Since the outbreak of the Gaza war in October 2023, US forces in Iraq and Syria have been repeatedly targeted by pro-Iranian militias. In response, the US launched heavy strikes on Tehran-linked sites.

By Sabina Mammadli