List of Iran-backed or allied groups operating in Iraq
- Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF): Also known as Al-Hashd Al-Shaabi, PMF is an umbrella organization comprising various Shiite militia groups. While not directly controlled by Iran, many factions within PMF have close ties to Iran and receive support from Tehran.
- Badr Organization: One of the largest Shiite political and military groups in Iraq, the Badr Organization has historical ties to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and continues to maintain close relations with Tehran.
- Asa’ib Ahl al-Haq (AAH): A Shiite militia group known for its anti-American and anti-Sunni stance, AAH has strong ideological and logistical ties to Iran. It was founded by Qais al-Khazali, who has close links to Iran.
- Kata’ib Hezbollah (KH): A Shiite paramilitary group operating primarily in Iraq, Kata’ib Hezbollah is closely allied with Iran and has been designated as a terrorist organization by the United States.
- The Islamic Resistance in Iraq (IRI): This group is closely associated with Iran and opposes the presence of foreign forces in Iraq, particularly those from the United States. It primarily consists of Shiite fighters and is part of the broader network of Shiite militias operating in Iraq.
- The Islamic Supreme Council of Iraq (ISCI): A Shiite political party in Iraq, ISCI has historical ties to Iran and has received support from Tehran in the past.
- Fatah Alliance: A political coalition in Iraq led by Hadi al-Amiri, who is closely aligned with Iran. The coalition includes various Shiite factions with ties to Tehran.
These groups represent a spectrum of Shiite political and military entities in Iraq, many of which have close ties to Iran and often align with Tehran’s geopolitical interests in the region.
