Archive · 29 Jul 2026
Iraq's Iranian-Backed Armed Groups: Power and Influence
In Iraq, there are powerful armed groups supported by Iran.
These groups, like Kataib Hezbollah and Asa'ib Ahl al-Haq, have many fighters and strong weapons.
They have a lot of influence in Iraq's politics and business.
They have attacked U.S. and Saudi targets, and the U.S. has struck back at them.
These groups are part of a larger network that Iran uses to have power in the region.
The Iraqi government and its allies want to control these groups, but they continue to be a strong force in Iraq.
Iranian-backed Shi'ite armed groups in Iraq have significant military and political influence.
These groups, including Kataib Hezbollah and Asa'ib Ahl al-Haq, are supported by Iran and have about 50,000 fighters.
They have carried out attacks on U.S. forces and facilities, defying government calls for restraint.
The U.S. and its allies have conducted strikes against these groups to deter further attacks.
These groups are part of Iran's network of regional proxy forces, aiming to exert influence in Iraq and the region.
- Who
- Iranian-backed Shi'ite armed groups in Iraq, including Kataib Hezbollah and Asa'ib Ahl al-Haq
- What
- These groups have significant military and political influence in Iraq, supported by Iran.
- When
- The groups gained prominence after the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq in 2003.
- Where
- Iraq
- Why
- To exert Iranian influence in Iraq and the region, and to oppose U.S. and Saudi interests.
Pro-Iranian Groups
Iraqi Government and Allies
Role in Iraq
Pro-Iranian Groups
The Iranian-backed groups, such as Kataib Hezbollah and Asa'ib Ahl al-Haq, have significant military and political influence in Iraq, with Iranian support.
Iraqi Government and Allies
The Iraqi government and its allies, including the U.S. and Saudi Arabia, seek to rein in these groups, viewing them as destabilizing forces.
Attacks on U.S. Forces
Pro-Iranian Groups
Groups like Kataib Hezbollah have carried out attacks on U.S. forces and facilities, defying government calls for restraint.
Iraqi Government and Allies
The U.S. and its allies have conducted strikes against these groups, aiming to deter further attacks and protect their interests.
- Founding Year
- Mid-2000s
- Key Figures
- Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, Qais Al-Khazali
- Estimated Fighters
- 50,000
- Notable Attacks
- Drone attacks on Saudi oil facilities, missile and drone attacks on Israel and U.S. forces
- Political Influence
- Seats in parliament and government, business networks