US Reportedly Greenlights Israeli Strikes on Iran-Linked Militias in Iraq

Western sources informed the Emirati news outlet "Erem News" on Monday that the United States has granted Israel approval to operate against Iranian-backed militias in Iraqi airspace, removing previous operational limitations for the Israeli Air Force. According to these sources, this authorization permits Israel to target these militias within Iraq. The sources also indicated that the US was briefed on Israeli plans to thwart militia attempts to establish a presence in the region as part of understandings between the two countries. Washington has reportedly pledged to bolster its own defense systems to protect its forces and interests in the Middle East, a move prompted by concerns that militias might escalate tensions in response to potential Israeli strikes.

This development follows the complete withdrawal of US forces from Iraq at the end of September. Approximately 2,500 American soldiers had been stationed in the country to provide advisory and training support to the Iraqi government, marking the end of a US military presence that began after the 2003 overthrow of Saddam Hussein's regime.

Meanwhile, the Iraqi government announced it has postponed the deadline for dismantling militias from September 30 to June 30. Elements within the Iranian axis have characterized the US troop withdrawal as a victory. Experts on Iraq have expressed concerns that the militias may leverage this momentum to increase their influence within the Arab nation.