Iraq has directed a significant boost in its air defence systems and intelligence operations in response to recent US-Saudi airstrikes targeting pro-Iran armed groups within its borders.
Government spokesperson Sabah al-Numan revealed that Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi has mandated maximum alertness across military camps and bases, with particular focus on official armed forces installations and Hashed al-Shaabi sites. The Hashed al-Shaabi, an Iraqi paramilitary alliance integrated into the national armed forces, includes factions aligned with Iran and known for independent actions.
Key measures include:
- Accelerated modernization and rebuilding of air defence capabilities.
- Deployment of advanced radar and early-warning systems.
- Enhanced intelligence to control weapon distribution strictly under state authority.
- Prevention of unauthorized militant activities.
The recent strikes, conducted on July 29, resulted in the deaths of 20 fighters, including five Iranians, and targeted bases linked to the Hashed al-Shaabi. Riyadh justified the strikes by citing intercepted drone attacks on Saudi oil facilities allegedly launched by Iran-backed groups operating from Iraq.
Iraq has consistently opposed the use of its territory for attacks on neighbouring countries and is under growing pressure from the United States to disarm pro-Iran militias that have been implicated in regional attacks, including assaults on US installations.
Prime Minister Zaidi, who assumed office earlier this year with US support, has committed to disarming these groups. Meanwhile, Tehran-backed factions deny involvement in the drone attacks and have warned of inevitable retaliation against the US-Saudi strikes.
The situation underscores Iraq's delicate position as a battleground for competing interests between its two major allies, Washington and Tehran.
