US Reportedly Allows Israel to Strike Iran-Linked Militias in Iraq

Western sources cited by the "Al-Monitor" news site claim that the United States has removed operational restrictions, potentially enabling Israel to conduct strikes against Iran-backed militias within Iraq. This development follows the recent completion of the U.S. military withdrawal from Iraq on September 30th, which concluded the mission that began in 2014 to combat ISIS. The remaining U.S. forces involved in the regional mission have been relocated to Jordan.

According to the report, the alleged U.S. green light for Israeli operations comes amid understandings between Washington and Jerusalem. Western sources suggest the U.S. administration was briefed on Israeli plans to counter the entrenchment of pro-Iranian militias in Iraq. Concurrently, the U.S. is reportedly set to bolster its own defense systems in the region and prepare for potential retaliation from these militias.

"Al-Monitor" further reports that the Israeli military and Mossad have completed operational preparations for potential airstrikes and swift actions against the command centers and weapons depots of Iran-aligned armed factions in Iraq. However, the report emphasizes that these are claims from the Arab report and not an official Israeli confirmation.

Israel's primary concern, according to the sources, is Iraq potentially becoming a key link in a land corridor from Iran to Syria and Lebanon. Iran is alleged to use this route to transfer advanced weaponry, including ballistic missiles and drones, and provide logistical and financial support to regional militias. Israeli plans are reportedly focused on disrupting these supply lines to prevent Iraq from serving as a logistical rear for Iranian expansion.

Meanwhile, the Iraqi government is attempting to consolidate all weaponry under its control, a move reportedly met with resistance from major pro-Iranian militias like Hezbollah Brigades and the Al-Nujaba movement. While the government has extended deadlines for integrating militia fighters into state institutions, strategic weapons such as missiles and long-range drones are said to remain in the hands of these armed factions, indicating Iraq's complex security landscape post-U.S. withdrawal.