Attack on Iraqi paramilitary group Popular Mobilization highlights ongoing tensions between pro-Iranian groups and the United States

The pro-Iranian Shiite paramilitary group Popular Mobilization paid tribute to their fallen fighters in Baghdad, after an attack on Friday left at least two people dead and three others injured. The target of the attack was the Kalsu base near Babel, where Popular Mobilization fighters were stationed alongside Iraqi military and police personnel. Despite statements from an American government source that the United States did not participate in the attack, Popular Mobilization has been a target of previous US attacks.

The group emerged from various armed groups that have ties to Iran and were later recognized as a formal security force by the Iraqi government. Some of these groups have carried out attacks against American targets in Iraq and Syria, leading to US retaliation earlier this year. However, the offensive against American targets ceased in February. The incident in Babel highlights ongoing tensions between pro-Iranian groups and the United States, as well as the complex dynamics in the region. The aftermath of the attack is likely to have repercussions on security in Iraq and the wider Middle East region.