US Lifts Operational Limits on Israeli Air Force in Iraq

The United States has reportedly removed operational restrictions on the Israeli Air Force operating in Iraqi airspace, granting Israel greater freedom to target pro-Iranian militias within Iraq. According to a report by the Emirati news outlet "Erem News," Western sources cited in the report stated that Washington was informed in advance of Israel's plans to thwart the entrenchment of these militias. Concurrently, the US has committed to bolstering its defense systems in the Middle East to safeguard its forces and interests from potential retaliation by the militias.

These developments coincide with a significant shift in the American military presence in Iraq. On September 30, the US Army's Central Command completed the withdrawal of American forces and equipment from the airbase in Erbil, Iraq, marking the end of "Operation Inherent Resolve." This withdrawal signifies the conclusion of over two decades of continuous US military presence in Iraq, which began with the 2003 invasion.

A contingent of approximately 2,500 American soldiers had been engaged in advising and training local security forces in recent years. The US military's Joint Combined Task Force remains active, now operating its command from Jordan, while US forces continue their mission against ISIS in Syria.

Domestically, the Iraqi government has postponed its deadline for the dismantling of armed militias from September 30 to June 30 of next year. Key Shiite militias, including Kata'ib Hezbollah and the Al-Nujaba Movement, have refused to disband, with the umbrella organization Al-Hashd al-Shaabi continuing to operate as an extension of Iran's Quds Force. This situation is seen as completing the "Shiite Crescent," a territorial corridor facilitating the transfer of weapons, military technology, and fighters from Iran through Iraq to Syria and Lebanon. While the Iranian axis views the US withdrawal as a victory, regional experts warn that the militias are likely to exploit the created vacuum to expand their influence in Iraq.