Iraq Raises Military Alert Amid Rising Tensions Between US, Saudi Arabia, and Iran-Backed Militias

Iraq has escalated its military readiness nationwide following recent attacks by Saudi Arabia and the United States targeting Iranian-backed militias within Iraqi territory. The heightened alert was ordered by Iraq's new Prime Minister, Ali Al-Zaydi, who assumed office in late April with a goal to steer Iraq away from regional conflicts and maintain balanced relations, excluding Israel. Despite his efforts, Iraq is increasingly becoming a battleground between local security forces and pro-Iranian militias, reflecting the broader US-Iran confrontation spilling into Iraqi soil.

The Iraqi armed forces have deployed reinforcements, particularly around Baghdad, to counter potential threats from Iranian proxy groups. These militias have been repositioned and continue to operate under Iran's influence, recently conducting attacks in Saudi Arabia. Al-Zaydi, a businessman with limited political experience, sought to form a government excluding pro-Iranian factions but faced significant obstacles due to Iraq's Shiite majority and entrenched militia power. This failure has complicated disarmament efforts and weakened central authority.

Iraq has effectively become an Iranian client state over recent years, with Shiite militias integrated into politics and government, facilitating Iranian military logistics to Syria and Lebanon. Former US President Donald Trump supported Al-Zaydi's appointment to reduce Iranian influence, instructing him to sever ties with pro-Iranian groups. However, Al-Zaydi's inability to exclude these factions has undermined this strategy.

Currently, Iraqi forces prepare for possible internal clashes with these militias amid ongoing US-Iran tensions, including negotiations over the Strait of Hormuz. The situation raises concerns about whether the US might intervene militarily to protect its interests and Al-Zaydi's fragile government in Baghdad.