Is Iraq now in the Resistance?

 

While the Iraqi government officially maintains a policy of neutrality, Iraq is currently a central theater for the "Axis of Resistance"—an informal network of Iranian-backed groups. 

As of March 2026, the situation is defined by a "hybrid" state where powerful armed factions operate both within and outside the government's formal control. 

Current Status of the "Resistance" in Iraq

• The Islamic Resistance in Iraq (IRI): This is an umbrella group of Shia militias (including Kata'ib Hezbollah and Harakat Hezbollah al-Nujaba) that is part of the Iran-led Axis of Resistance.
• Active Hostilities: These groups have significantly escalated attacks, claiming over 200 strikes on U.S. and Israeli interests since February 2026. On March 18, 2026, groups claimed dozens of drone and missile operations within a 24-hour period.
• State-Backed Paramilitaries: Many of these "resistance" fighters are also part of the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), a state-sponsored organization that receives government funding while often following independent or Tehran-aligned agendas. 

The Government's Position

• Official Neutrality: Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani has repeatedly stated that Iraqi soil should not be a "staging ground" for regional conflicts.
• Lack of Control: Experts note the government struggles to curb the rise of these militias, as they have "one foot in the state and one foot out," making it difficult to enforce state authority over their military actions.
• U.S. Relations: Despite the militia activity, the U.S. Department of State still considers the official Iraqi government a key partner in regional stability. 

Summary of Alignment

Entity	Alignment	Status
Iraqi Government	Officially Neutral	Seeks to balance relations between the U.S. and Iran.
Islamic Resistance in Iraq	Pro-Iran / Anti-U.S.	Actively conducting drone and missile strikes against "enemy" bases.
Popular Mobilization Forces	Hybrid	State-funded but largely aligned with the "Axis of Resistance".