Summary of the Article: Iraq‘s PMF and US Pressure
This article details the ongoing struggle over the future of Iraq’s Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), a powerful paramilitary group formed to combat ISIS. Here’s a breakdown of the key points:
Origins of the PMF: The PMF arose from a security vacuum following the 2003 US invasion and the disbanding of the iraqi army. They were initially accomplished in fighting ISIS where the regular army failed.
Iranian Influence: However, many PMF members became aligned with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, turning the group into a tool for regional influence.
US Pressure for Dissolution/Integration: The US is heavily pressuring Iraqi Prime Minister mohammed al-sudani to dismantle or integrate the PMF into the regular army, viewing it as an unacceptable Iranian proxy within Iraq. Iraqi Internal Conflict: Al-Sudani faces opposition from within his governing coalition, as the PMF enjoys significant support. Some Iraqi lawmakers are even attempting to formalize the PMF’s status as an autonomous military force.
US Tactics: The US has employed several tactics to exert pressure, including:
Threatening a review of US-Iraqi relations and potential sanctions.
Imposing tariffs on Iraq.
Disrupting PMF salary payments through state-owned banks.
Calling for sanctions against banks allegedly involved in corruption linked to the PMF.
The Certain Outcome (According to the Article): The author believes Al-Sudani will ultimately yield to US pressure. Factions willing to distance themselves from Iran will be integrated,while those who remain loyal will be isolated or dismantled.
Potential Risks: This process carries significant risks, including potential violence from PMF groups loyal to Iran and the possibility of renewed civil conflict.
Long-term Goal: Despite the risks, the author argues that successfully navigating this crisis coudl led to greater Iraqi sovereignty, something the country has lacked as the 2003 invasion.
In essence,the article portrays a power struggle between the US and Iran playing out on Iraqi soil,with the PMF as the central battleground. the US is determined to curb Iranian influence in Iraq, and the PMF is seen as a key instrument of that influence. the future of Iraq’s security architecture hangs in the balance.
