The United States has initiated the withdrawal of its troops from Iraq, paving the way for a significant reduction in American military presence, including the evacuation of the Ain al-Asad base. This move, part of a broader agreement with the Iraqi government, has raised concerns over potential Israeli military action against Shiite militias in the region.
According to an Iraqi political source, preparations for an Israeli offensive are reportedly underway as American forces prepare to leave their main bases in Baghdad and Ain al-Asad. The Shiite militias, which have been supported by Iran and were originally formed to combat ISIS, have long sought a reduction in U.S. military presence in Iraq.
Historically, these militias have launched attacks against Israel, but Israeli responses have been restrained due to the presence of American troops, which acted as a deterrent. With the U.S. withdrawal, the dynamics on the ground may shift significantly, potentially emboldening both militias and Israeli military actions.
This development has reignited the contentious debate within Iraq regarding the disarmament of these militias. Pro-Iranian factions in the Iraqi parliament are pushing for legislation to legalize the militias, a move that the United States opposes strongly. As tensions mount, the situation remains fluid, and the implications of the U.S. troop withdrawal could further complicate regional security.
