BAGHDAD: A proposed Iraqi bill to restructure and formalize the powerful pro-Iran Hashed Al-Shaabi alliance has ignited fierce debate at home and abroad, with Washington warning it could cement Tehran’s influence.
Formed in 2014 to fight Daesh, the Hashed is a coalition of armed groups with over 200,000 fighters and deep political influence. The draft law — details of which remain limited — would regulate the force, create a special military academy, and grant it greater financial independence.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio condemned the bill, saying it would “institutionalize Iranian influence and armed terrorist groups undermining Iraq’s sovereignty.” Critics in Iraq warn it could resemble Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, while supporters argue it would integrate the Hashed more fully into state structures.
Political scientist Renad Mansour notes the move could either “contain” the factions within the system or consolidate their power, giving them more access to funds, intelligence, and equipment.
The bill comes amid heightened Middle East tensions linked to the Gaza war and as Iran-backed groups face pressure elsewhere, including Hezbollah’s potential disarmament in Lebanon.
While Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani insists the Hashed is already “an official Iraqi military institution” under the Armed Forces’ command, many factions operate independently, some aligned with Baghdad and others loyal to Iran’s “Axis of Resistance.”
Supporters within Iraq’s Shiite political camp seek to elevate the Hashed to a level equal to the defense or interior ministries. Sunni and Kurdish politicians — and some Shiite factions — oppose the idea.
Analysts warn the bill could become a powerful election tool ahead of November’s vote, with institutionalization potentially unlocking greater access to Iraq’s vast state resources.
0 comments:
Post a Comment