Iran Prepares Iraqi Militias for Possible US Ground Invasion Amid Rising Tensions

Iranian authorities believe recent US airstrikes on their territory are not isolated incidents but part of a broader strategy that could escalate to a ground invasion. Tehran has instructed pro-Iranian militias operating in Iraq to prepare for a wide regional conflict, including the possibility of direct American ground operations. These militias have been told to be ready to engage in multiple theaters across the region, such as Kurdistan, Kuwait, Jordan, and Baghdad, with Iran not ruling out opening additional fronts depending on developments.

In recent months, the commander of Iran's Quds Force has visited Iraq to deliver clear orders to militia leaders, emphasizing the need to avoid internal Iraqi conflicts to preserve their strength for potential regional escalation. Concurrently, Iran is aware that some smaller militias in Iraq are considering disarming under US pressure, a move Washington has partially succeeded in encouraging. However, Tehran believes the main and more powerful militias remain intact and is focusing its efforts on strengthening these groups as the core force in any expanded conflict.

This preparation reflects Iran's strategic calculation that the US might shift from airstrikes to ground operations, prompting Tehran to ready its proxies for a broader confrontation. The situation remains tense as both sides position themselves for possible escalation in the region.