US pressure may break Iranian influence in Iraq
Summary
The article discusses the growing pressure from the United States on Iraq to limit Iran's influence by integrating or dissolving Iran-aligned paramilitary groups known as the Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF). These groups have significant influence in Iraq, and the U.S. is urging the Iraqi government to absorb compliant units into the regular army and remove hardline militia leaders. The article highlights the challenges faced by Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed al-Sudani as he navigates pressures from both the U.S. and supporters of the PMF within his government.Key Facts
- Iran's influence in the Middle East is reducing, especially in Iraq, where U.S. pressure is high.
- The Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF) are a group of paramilitary factions with ties to Iran.
- The U.S. wants Iraq to integrate these groups into the regular army to reduce Iran's influence.
- Iraqi Prime Minister al-Sudani is facing pressure from both the U.S. and his own government members who support the PMF.
- A proposed bill in Iraq to make the PMF a permanent, independent force was withdrawn due to U.S. pressure.
- U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that the bill could affect U.S.-Iraqi relations, including possible sanctions.
- In June, the salaries of PMF fighters were disrupted by a state-owned bank in Iraq under U.S. pressure.
- There are allegations of a corruption scandal involving the PMF, linked to $2.5 billion missing from state funds.
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