Nujaba Vows to Continue Attacks on US Forces in Iraq Until Gaza War Ends
The Iran-backed Iraqi armed group, Nujaba, has announced that it will persist in launching attacks on US forces in the region until the Gaza war concludes and US forces withdraw from Iraq. This declaration comes just days after another major Iran-backed group, Kataib Hezbollah, stated that it would suspend such attacks.
Kataib Hezbollah’s decision to pause attacks on US forces followed the killing of three US soldiers in a drone attack near the Syrian border, which Washington attributed to Iran-backed militants. In response, the US has vowed to retaliate against those responsible.
While Nujaba’s leader, Akram Al-Kaabi, acknowledged Kataib Hezbollah’s decision, he emphasized that Nujaba and other factions within the Islamic Resistance in Iraq (IRI) would continue their operations. The IRI is an umbrella group comprising hard-line Shiite militias and is part of Iran’s “Axis of Resistance.” Since the start of the Gaza war, the IRI has claimed responsibility for over 150 attacks on US forces in Iraq and Syria. However, Iran denies any direct involvement in these attacks.
Iraqi officials are concerned about the potential severity of Washington’s response to the killing of its soldiers. In an effort to de-escalate tensions, both Baghdad and Tehran urged Kataib Hezbollah to stand down. Sources have revealed that Iraqi officials fear the repercussions of further US military action.
Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi reiterated his country’s stance, stating that Iran does not seek war but will respond strongly to any attempts to bully or intimidate it. This statement reflects Iran’s determination to defend its interests and maintain its regional influence.
The history between the US and Iran-backed militias in Iraq has been marked by violence. In 2020, the US conducted a drone strike at Baghdad airport, killing Qassem Soleimani, the commander of Iran’s Quds Force, and Abu Mahdi Al-Muhandis, the leader of Kataib Hezbollah. This strike came in response to the US blaming Kataib Hezbollah for the killing of a US contractor.
The ongoing conflict between Iran-backed militias and US forces in Iraq highlights the complex dynamics at play in the region. The militias, supported by Iran, view the US presence as an occupation and seek to expel American forces from Iraq. On the other hand, the US maintains a military presence in Iraq to combat terrorism and support the Iraqi government.
As tensions continue to escalate, it is crucial for diplomatic efforts to be prioritized. Dialogue and negotiations must be pursued to find a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The international community should play a role in facilitating talks between the involved parties and encouraging de-escalation.
The situation in Iraq remains precarious, with the potential for further violence and instability. The actions of Nujaba and other Iran-backed militias pose a significant challenge to both Iraq and the US. It is essential for all parties involved to exercise restraint and work towards a peaceful resolution that respects the sovereignty and stability of Iraq.
In conclusion, Nujaba’s announcement to continue attacks on US forces in Iraq until the Gaza war ends and US forces withdraw highlights the ongoing tensions between Iran-backed militias and the US. The situation calls for diplomatic efforts and negotiations to de-escalate the conflict and find a peaceful resolution. The international community should support these efforts and encourage dialogue between all parties involved.