Israel May Open New Front Against Iran in Iraq Post-US Withdrawal

Israel is reportedly preparing to expand its military operations against Iran-backed groups in Iraq following the anticipated withdrawal of U.S. forces. The move comes amid concerns in Israel that the U.S. departure could create a strategic corridor for Iran, which Israel intends to block. According to Emirati publication Erem News, Washington has granted Israel permission to operate in Iraqi and Jordanian airspace, potentially enabling strikes on Tehran's allies.

Sources indicate that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Mossad have completed military and operational preparations. Potential targets include command centers, weapons depots, and other facilities belonging to Iran-affiliated armed factions. Previously, the presence of U.S. forces and their control over regional airspace significantly limited Israel's operational capabilities, as Iraq, Jordan, and other Arab nations opposed Israeli flights and strikes in the area.

Israel fears that the vacuum left by U.S. troops will allow Iran to significantly enhance its land route through Iraq and Syria to Lebanon. This route is considered a key component of the "Shia crescent" and is used to transfer weapons, including precision missiles and long-range drones, as well as funding and supplies to Tehran's proxies.

The primary objective of potential Israeli actions would be to disrupt these supply lines and prevent Iraq from becoming a major rear base for Iran's regional military presence. Meanwhile, Iraqi authorities are attempting to disarm armed groups within the country and integrate their members into official security structures by mid-2027. However, major pro-Iranian factions, such as Kataib Hezbollah and Harakat al-Nujaba, have resisted disarmament and are unwilling to relinquish their arsenals.