Title: U.S. Fighter Jets Strike Iranian-Backed Militias in Iraq Amid Ongoing Tensions
In a retaliatory move, U.S. fighter jets have launched airstrikes on three facilities in Jurf Al-Sakhr, Iraq, which were being utilized by Iranian-backed militias. This action by the U.S. was in response to a previous attack on the Ain Al-Asad Airbase. Tensions between the United States and Iran-backed groups have escalated in recent months, with over 130 attacks on U.S. forces recorded in Iraq and Syria since October.
The Biden administration has been cautious in addressing these attacks, resorting to labeling its actions as “unilateral” in order to avoid embarrassing Iraqi Prime Minister Muhammad Al-Sudani. It is believed that Sudani’s reluctance to end the U.S. presence in Iraq stems from Iran’s fear of facing U.S. sanctions on Iraq if troops are withdrawn. Iraq is an essential lifeline for Iran, facilitating activities such as oil exports to China, illicit trade, and financial support.
The debate surrounding the presence of anti-ISIS coalition troops in Iraq gained international attention when the U.S. targeted and killed top Iranian general Qassem Soleimani, alongside his Iraqi lieutenant. During this time, the Iraqi parliament held discussions on potentially ending the presence of these troops. However, the threat of U.S. sanctions on Iraq prompted the Kurdish and Sunni blocs to boycott the session, thus preventing the vote from passing.
Moreover, the U.S. Treasury Department recently imposed sanctions on Fly Baghdad airline for its involvement in funding and facilitating Iran-backed militia attacks. This sheds light on Iraq’s crucial role in funding its corrupt oligarchs and providing financial support to Iran through oil production and revenue.
Iran not only relies on Iraq for economic support but also receives funds via small exchange shops and Iraq’s spending on pro-Iran Shia militia fighters. As a result, Tehran is apprehensive about potential U.S. sanctions on Iraq and fears they may be imposed if Sudani issues a demand for troop withdrawal.
The continued targeting of U.S. troops by Iranian-backed militias serves to demonstrate their anti-West stance and reinforce Iran’s control over Baghdad. Sudani’s statements on the international coalition mission have made headlines, but they lack a specific date for withdrawal. Interestingly, while Sudani’s military advisor criticized the recent U.S. strike, there has been no formal request for troop withdrawal, indicating a possible lack of desire from Iran to see U.S. forces leave.
As tensions persist, the situation remains delicate, with the potential for further clashes between the U.S. and Iran-backed militias. The world watches closely, awaiting the next move in this high-stakes conflict.
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