An influential member of an Iraqi militia has voiced his concerns to Newsweek about President Donald Trump’s credibility in relation to his assurances of peacefully withdrawing troops from Iraq. Firas al-Yasser from the Nujaba Movement’s Political Council insists that Trump should be pressured to follow through on his commitments. His concerns highlight the fact that many international communities regard American intentions with skepticism and uncertainty.
Yasser emphasizes the U.S. needs to fulfill its promises to the Iraqi government made by former president. Another remark by him, claiming that American forces cannot withstand the ‘modern strikes’ of their resistance, may imply that these militias underestimate the U.S. military capabilities. Overreliance on such beliefs can be potentially perilous.
The Nujaba Movement is in itself one of many factions in the Islamic Resistance of Iraq, that is ensnared within the broader, Iran-influenced Axis of Resistance coalition. The group have shown support for the Palestinian Hamas movement in their conflicts with Israel. Yet, their operations against U.S. troops had been considerably diminished since early 2024. Risks, however, look set to increase once more.
Recent tensions related to the U.S. and Israel seem poised to reignite the hesitation within the militia group. Responding to these pressures, Yasser stated his organization’s readiness to counteract if either the U.S. or Israel was to strike Iraq. Unfounded bravado can often lead to unpredictable outcomes and increased tensions.
In his criticism of the U.S., Yasser alludes to perceived dishonesty among American leaders. He maintains that Trump’s actions against Yemen as well as his promotion of continued oppressive actions against Palestinians represent a breach of trust. It is arguable whether such views are representative of a wider population or merely partisan sentiment.
He also claims that the U.S.’s ‘provocations’ will not interfere with the continuance of resistance in the region. This viewpoint may stem from an inflated estimation of their capabilities than what is realistic. It is important for all parties to recognize the changing dynamics and avoid adopting bullying tactics or inciting hostility.
Iraq has endured a prolonged period of conflict, starting significantly with the U.S.-led invasion in 2003 that ousted longstanding President Saddam Hussein. His departure led to a surge rival insurgencies and a descent into civil war in neighbouring Syria. This complicated situation provides context for Yasser’s stirred feelings.
During this time, the Nujaba Movement was in the collective of Iraqi militias known as the Popular Mobilization Forces. This group then assimilated into the Iraqi Armed Forces during the pushback against ISIS, adding another layer to the multifaceted conflict landscape.
Post-ISIS defeat in 2019, several elements of these forces operated independently, targeting U.S. troops. This occurred amidst mounting geo-political strain between Washington and Tehran. The role of U.S. troops in this scenario remains controversial, which adds complexity to the process of resolution.
Amidst the swelling violence in 2020 following an aggressive U.S. strike in Baghdad, President Trump initiated the reduction of U.S. military presence in Iraq. His Democrat successor Joe Biden proceeded to announce the termination of the U.S. combat mission in Iraq the following year, leaving approximately 2,500 personnel behind.
Despite Biden’s claim of ending the U.S. combat mission in Iraq, conflict scenarios remained unabated. Confrontations between U.S. forces and Iraqi militias resumed upon the inception of the Gaza war in late 2023. Biden’s administration attempted to deescalate the situation through a troop withdrawal agreement with Baghdad set to commence in 2025.
On the contrary, despite Trump’s previous retaliatory approach against Iran and linked militias, some Iraqi factions were optimistic he would work towards reducing U.S. military intervention. This disparity in outlook reflects the persistent unpredictability and shifting stances of American foreign policy.
The White House, however, has not yet shown commitment towards this proposed withdrawal outline, suggesting the potential for further discord. This uncertainty fuels anxieties within the Iraqi Islamic Resistance and their allied groups. The unpredictability of the situation rightfully demands thorough vigilance and anticipation.
Yasser ended his statement with a final note, boasting about the strength of the resistance fighters without offering comprehensive evidence. While making bold claims can be morale-boosting, they must be backed by solid foundations to avoid unmet expectations or escalated confrontations in the future.