Most of these groups are part of the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), which were originally formed to fight ISIS. Over time, however, many factions became closely aligned with Iran, receiving training, weapons, and funding from the IRGC. Their leaders openly declare support for Iran’s supreme leader, and some have even fought alongside Iranian forces in Syria.

Security analysts warn that these alliances undermine Iraq’s sovereignty and stability. Instead of focusing on protecting Iraqis, these militias often carry out Iran’s foreign policy—threatening U.S. forces, targeting Israel with drone attacks via Syria, and smuggling advanced weapons to Hezbollah.

Israel’s defense experts say the growing Iranian footprint in Iraq is part of a broader strategy to encircle Israel with hostile forces. They warn that Iraqi militias could be used to transport long-range missiles or launch cyberattacks against Israeli targets.

Western governments are urging Iraq’s leadership to reassert control over its armed forces and dismantle Tehran’s command networks. Without such action, experts believe Iran will continue using Iraqi soil as a launchpad for regional destabilization and support for terrorism.