Iraq Condemns 'Irresponsible' US Drone Strike on Militia Leaders in Baghdad

_{People carry a placard depicting commander from Kataib Hezbollah, Abu Bakir Al Saiedi, during his funeral in Baghdad on Thursday. Reuters}

The Iraqi government strongly denounced a US drone strike in Baghdad, characterizing it as a violation of the nation's sovereignty. The targeted attack, carried out in the midst of a residential area, resulted in the deaths of two high-ranking militia leaders associated with Kataib Hezbollah. The casualties were identified as Wissam Mohammed Sabir Al Saiedi and Arkam Al Alyawi.

Military spokesman Maj Gen Yahya Rasool condemned the strike as a clear assassination, emphasizing the irresponsible use of an airstrike in a densely populated neighborhood. Conflicting reports emerged regarding the number of casualties, with US officials indicating one death, while Iraqi militia sources reported two, including Al Saiedi. The lack of a specific number from the Iraqi government added to the uncertainty.

Kataib Hezbollah, an Iran-backed militia operating in Iraq and Syria, labeled Al Saiedi as a "great leader" and a significant figure within the organization. Al Saiedi was believed to have played a crucial role in managing the militia's missile capabilities in both Iraq and Syria.

Harakat Al Nujaba, another Iran-backed militia allied with Kataib Hezbollah, pledged revenge for the strike, stating that such actions by the US would not go unpunished. The heightened tensions between the US and Iran-backed militias have been escalating, with the US previously vowing retaliation against groups like Kataib Hezbollah for an attack on its base in Jordan.

The strike comes against the backdrop of increased violence between US forces and Iran-backed militias in Iraq and Syria, particularly since the Israel-Gaza conflict in October. The attacks on militia targets prompted calls for the withdrawal of US troops from Iraq, with pressure mounting on the government to address the longstanding demand.

Maj Gen Rasool criticized the US troops, asserting that their actions jeopardized civil peace, violated Iraqi sovereignty, and disregarded the safety of citizens. He argued that the coalition's consistent deviation from its objectives in Iraq raised concerns about its presence in the country.

Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al Sudani, backed by Iran-supported militias and parties, initiated the process for US troops to leave Iraq last month. Talks between Iraq and the US to end the international coalition's mission had commenced, with discussions expected to outline a timetable for reducing the coalition's presence.

However, the deadly drone attack on a US base in Jordan, attributed to Kataib Hezbollah, led to a pause in the talks, fueling further tensions. The recent strike on Kataib Hezbollah leaders has renewed calls for ending the coalition's presence in Iraq, with political factions, including Shiite groups, condemning the attack and emphasizing the need for US troops to depart.

The complexity of the situation was underscored by the diverse reactions from Shiite political figures, militias, and citizens. Calls for retaliation, condemnation of the attack's impact on regional security, and expressions of discontent among the Iraqi population highlighted the multifaceted challenges in the aftermath of the strike.

The precision of the attack, possibly using the R9X "flying ginsu" with blades to minimize collateral damage, indicates a targeted assassination strategy. This methodological approach aligns with recent trends in US responses to Iran-backed militia threats.

The incident forms part of a broader pattern of confrontations, with a historical context including previous targeted assassinations and retaliatory actions. The repercussions of this strike amplify the intricate dynamics in the region, raising concerns about the stability of Iraq and the broader Middle East.

Feb. 9, 2024 1:02 p.m. 2566

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