Iraq’s State Sponsored Terror groups raising stakes

The conflict in Gaza and Lebanon has further highlighted how Iraq's Iranian-backed militias function as state-sponsored terrorist organisations under the Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF) banner. These militias have evolved from irregular combat units into a mafia-like entity that infiltrates every aspect of Iraqi life and operates with minimal government control.

Formed in 2014 in response to the ISIS threat, the PMF is a coalition of predominantly Shia militias receiving substantial support from Iran. Over time, these groups have been integrated into Iraq’s official security forces, securing state-sanctioned funding and equipment. Yet, their loyalty often leans more toward Tehran and their own self-interests.

Several groups within the PMF are designated as terrorist organisations and are part of the “Resistance Axis.” A key example is Kata'ib Hezbollah, known for its involvement in attacks on U.S. and coalition forces and, more recently, against Israel.

Kata'ib Hezbollah leverages its position within the PMF to access state resources while maintaining operational independence. Another significant entity is Asa'ib Ahl al-Haq, which has similarly engaged in violence against U.S. interests and has

a history of sectarian violence. These factions blur the line between state-sanctioned military operations and autonomous paramilitary actions, while exploiting and taxing ordinary Iraqi citizens through corrupt practices to sustain their enterprises.

Despite receiving funding from the Iraqi government and Iraqi citizens, these groups continue to defy governmental authority. Prime Minister Al-Sudani has expressed a commitment to reforming the security sector, but the reality remains that these groups act independently, deploying forces into Syria, Lebanon, and Iran without government approval.

Currently, the militias' aggressive posture toward Israel, including the near-daily launch of drones from Iraqi and Syrian soil, heightens the risk of Iraq becoming a target for airstrikes.

And with Israel having grounds to justify strikes against these groups, the concern is that such actions could destabilise Iraq further, providing an opportunity for more extremist elements to join the fight,, adding more fuel to the fires of an already volatile situation.