Iraq Considers Ending America-Led Coalition's Mission Amid Ongoing US Airstrikes
A series of recent US airstrikes on Iran-backed armed groups in Iraq have exacerbated the already volatile situation in the region, sparking concerns of escalating instability and the potential for a larger cross-border conflict. Echoing these concerns, the military spokesman for Iraq's Prime Minister, Yahya Rasool, warned that the situation could draw Iraq into a broader confrontation.
US Airstrikes and the Escalating Tensions
These fears were heightened following a recent airstrike that reportedly claimed the life of a commander from Kataib Hezbollah, a group that the Pentagon accuses of orchestrating attacks on US forces. The US-led coalition, originally forged to combat the Islamic State, consists of 2,500 American troops tasked with advising and assisting in forestalling the resurgence of the militant group.
However, the onset of the conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza in October saw an escalation in hostilities in Iraq and Syria, with frequent retaliatory attacks between US forces and Iran-backed groups. This worrying trend has fueled an increasing number of questions about the future of the US-led coalition's presence in Iraq.
Stability at Stake
The US Central Command confirmed the strikes, stating that they were a response to attacks on American forces. Yet, this explanation did little to mollify Iraqi officials who labelled the drone strike as a 'blatant assassination,' warning that it threatens to destabilize Iraq.
Amidst this rising tension, the US State Department revealed that Iraq was not forewarned about the strikes. The Pentagon added that the US response to the killing of its service members is 'not complete,' thereby further complicating the process of reducing the US military footprint in Iraq and transitioning to a more conventional military-to-military relationship with Baghdad.
Retaliation and its Repercussions
In response to a drone attack that killed three American soldiers in Jordan, the US launched retaliatory strikes against Iranian proxies in Iraq and Syria. These strikes, which targeted command and control centers, headquarters buildings, and weapons storage facilities, have heightened concerns over regional stability.
Despite both the US and Iran claiming that they do not seek war, their continued retaliatory actions paint a different picture. The escalating tensions and the potential destabilization of Iraq due to these airstrikes and their aftermath remain a pressing concern for the international community.
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