ERBIL — The Islamic Resistance in Iraq has announced its decision to resume attacks on United States forces and positions in Iraq, in response to the killing of Abu Bakr al-Saadi, a senior militia commander.
This move marks a resurgence in hostilities after a temporary suspension following previous incidents.
The decision to resume the attacks was made in the wake of the targeted killing of Abu Bakr al-Saadi prompted the Islamic Resistance in Iraq to call for intensified actions against US military presence in the region. Senior militia commanders in Baghdad have reportedly agreed to retaliate against the assassination, signaling a unified stance among various armed groups.
Heightened tensions have been observed in Baghdad, as US drones have been spotted flying at low altitudes over the city in recent days. This surveillance activity has raised concerns among militia leaders, with fears of potential airstrikes targeting them. The presence of US drones has noticeably restricted the movements of militia groups and their leaders, as they anticipate potential attacks.
Iraqi political analyst Mohannad Janabi characterized the current situation as indicative of Iraq's transition into an "unorganized war," emphasizing the escalating conflict between local militias and US forces. Janabi further underscored the ramifications of this development, warning of its adverse impact on stability in the region.
The resurgence of attacks by the militia group comes after a temporary halt in hostilities following the United States' vow to retaliate for the deaths of three soldiers in attacks on a US base in Jordan on January 30. The suspension of attacks by Iraqi Hezbollah militias was in response to this declaration, reflecting a temporary de-escalation in tensions prior to the recent developments.
The United States has yet to respond to the recent escalation, but observers fear that further military actions could exacerbate the already volatile situation in Iraq.