Iraqs Kataib Hezbollah Threatens Total War Against Iran Attack

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio Urges Iraq to Maintain Distance from Iran

Iraqi armed group leader Abu Hussein al-Hamidawi has warned that a potential war with Iran would not be a straightforward conflict. In a statement on Sunday, he called on fighters to prepare for battle, describing the country as the “fortress and pride” of Muslims.

Al-Hamidawi stated that any attack on Iran would result in severe consequences, including the loss of life and destruction. He emphasized the need for support from regional allies, including Kataib Hezbollah, an Iraqi paramilitary group affiliated with the Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF).

The PMF was established in 2014 to counter ISIL’s advances in Iraq. The US has been amassing military assets in the region, prompting concerns about potential escalation.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently spoke with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, urging Baghdad to maintain a distance from Iran. Rubio emphasized that a government controlled by Iran would struggle to prioritize Iraq’s interests and avoid regional conflicts.

Tensions between the US and Iran have been escalating, with President Donald Trump calling on Iranian antigovernment protesters to take action earlier this month. The US has since sent an aircraft carrier strike group to the Middle East, increasing its military presence in the Gulf.

Iran has pledged to defend itself against any attack, stating that it will respond firmly to any violation of its sovereignty. The country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Esmaeil Baghaei, emphasized Iran’s commitment to diplomacy while warning of a strong response to any aggression.

The situation remains tense, with several airlines suspending flights across the region due to concerns about escalation.

Source: Al Jazeera