Iraq's Popular Mobilisation Forces fear Israeli strikes, distance themselves from Tehran

The Iraqi political and armed forces affiliated to Tehran have decided to distance themselves from Israel’s battles with Hezbollah and Iran, fearing that expanding the growing Middle Eastern wars could ruin Iraq and their own positions, Middle East Eye reveals. 

The move comes amid fears from armed factions and security services that Israel could hit several targets in Iraq, including the headquarters of the Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF), a governmental umbrella organisation that oversees various paramilitaries, including those close to Iran.

Iraqi officials and leaders of Iranian-backed armed factions told MEE they do not plan to target US interests or military bases in Iraq or Syria, commanders said.

READ MORE: Iraqi forces decide to keep out of Israel’s battles with Hezbollah and Iran