Iraqi Militias Log 171 US Air Intrusions Since Coalition Exit
Iran-backed groups claim US jets violated Iraqi airspace between September 30 and October 23, complicating Baghdad's push to centralize militia weapons.
By Amy Swan ·
The Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an umbrella organization of Iran-backed militias, reported that 171 US military aircraft violated Iraqi airspace between September 30 and October 23. The group, which includes Kataib Hezbollah and Harakat al-Nujaba, issued the count via a report by Rudaw. The allegation followed the formal conclusion of the US-led anti-ISIS coalition mission in Iraq on September 30. The militias did not provide independent verification for the flight logs.
Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi has used the coalition's departure as a lever to force armed factions to submit their weapons to state control. His administration set a deadline of June 30, 2027, for the full integration of militia armaments. Zaidi stated in an interview with Iraqi state media that no weapons should remain outside state frameworks by that date. Several powerful factions have rejected the initiative, while others, including Harakat Ansar Allah al-Awfiya and Kataib Sayyid al-Shuhada, have expressed willingness to cooperate.
The Islamic Resistance in Iraq also accused Baghdad of appeasing Washington. The group cited the reduction of commercial flights and the closure of border crossings with Iran as evidence of this shift. Tensions rose as speculation grew regarding a potential new war between Iran and the United States. The militias view their weapons as necessary defenses against Washington and Israel, even after the coalition's withdrawal.
US officials issued a new travel advisory on Saturday, warning of increased regional threats. The State Department update cited the risk of attacks by the Iranian-backed Houthis against Saudi Arabia. It noted that strikes on civilian airports and critical infrastructure could trigger wider escalation. The advisory maintained its warning against all travel to Iraq, stating that the government could not guarantee safety against sudden outbreaks of violence.
The State Department specifically identified threats from armed groups inside Iraq. It noted that terrorists, including ISIS and Iran-aligned militias, conduct attacks against US persons using drones, indirect fire, and improvised explosive devices. Potential targets include airports, energy infrastructure, hotels, and diplomatic facilities. The warning highlighted the continued presence of these groups despite Baghdad's disarmament efforts.
Rudaw reported that US intelligence warned of increased Iranian efforts to assassinate American diplomats in the Middle East. A memorandum dated Friday from National Intelligence Director Jay Clayton to Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that some plots had reached advanced stages. Washington has reduced staffing at several embassies in response to these concerns. The report emerged as the US Embassy in Iraq updated its security guidance.
In related developments, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps targeted a gathering center of the Kurdistan Free Life Party in Iran. Clashes between the IRGC and the party's armed wing, the Eastern Kurdistan Units, have intensified over the past week. Iran used drones and artillery in mountainous areas where the fighters operate. Tehran described the operation as a preemptive strike against members preparing attacks.
Source: The Jerusalem Post
