Latest Developments
- Tehran and Baghdad Discuss Regional Developments: Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani met with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in Tehran on January 8. The two leaders discussed infrastructure projects and the developments in Syria following the overthrow of former dictator Bashar al-Assad during a joint press conference, with Sudani emphasizing Syria’s sovereignty and “reducing external influence.”
- Iran Recalculates Its Proxy Doctrine: Brig. Gen. Esmail Ghaani, the commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Quds Force, which focuses on attacks outside Iran, met with Iran-backed Shia militia leaders, Iraqi politicians, and al-Sudani during a covert trip to Iraq on January 5. Ghaani addressed “restructuring and disengaging armed factions” that operate at Tehran’s behest. Washington has pressured the government in Baghdad to dissolve these factions or integrate them into the Iraqi armed forces.
- The ‘Axis of Resistance’ Braces for Trump’s Return: Tehran’s Iraqi proxies have halted their attacks on Israel following President-elect Donald Trump’s victory as they recalibrate their strategy towards the upcoming administration in Washington. Prominent Iraqi Shia figures with close ties to Tehran have raised concerns about renewed U.S. pressure on Baghdad to dismantle these militias.
FDD Experts Response
“Iranian influence in Iraq not only grants Tehran access to U.S. dollars but also poses a significant threat to American personnel stationed in the region. The so-called ‘Axis of Resistance’ continues to reel from the elimination of former IRGC commander Qassem Soleimani exactly five years ago, and the new administration should remain resolute in employing similar strategies if Tehran provokes the United States or its allies.” — Janatan Sayeh, Research Analyst
“Iranian-backed Iraqi militias have received millions of dollars indirectly from the United States through funds sent to the Iraqi government. These groups have used this wealth to arm themselves and pose ongoing threats to U.S. personnel and regional allies. The next administration should intensify pressure on the Iraqi government to cut ties with and dismantle these militias.” — Ahmad Sharawi, Research Analyst