The PMF strike in Anbar triggered strong reactions across Iraq after suspected U.S. airstrikes hit militia bases Thursday. The attacks occurred near Al-Qaim in western Anbar Governorate. Local officials reported heavy explosions across the remote desert region.
Security sources said the strikes targeted facilities belonging to the Popular Mobilization Forces. The attacks focused on bases in the Akashat area southwest of Al-Qaim. Several military buildings, vehicles, and support sites suffered damage during the strikes.
Officials said the targeted positions belonged to the PMF’s 19th Brigade. This brigade operates under the name Ansar Allah al-Awfiya. Early reports suggested that nearly 30 fighters died in the strikes. Several others suffered injuries during the explosions.
Iraqi leaders quickly condemned the incident and warned about sovereignty violations. Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani said authorities were closely monitoring developments. He described the attacks as blatant aggression against Iraqi security sites. He also warned that repeated strikes could destabilize the country.
Meanwhile, Qasim al-Araji strongly criticized the attack. He described the incident as a serious assault on Iraqi sovereignty. He said the strikes killed and injured dozens of security personnel.
Iraq’s Security Media Cell also released a statement. The group operates under the Iraqi Joint Operations Command. Officials said they were closely monitoring the situation.
Local authorities later confirmed the scale of the casualties. Imad al-Dulaimi said preliminary reports suggested about 30 fighters died. Officials still review the final casualty figures.
Another official, Turki al-Mahlawi, confirmed similar numbers. He said several PMF bases were struck during the operation.
The PMF strike in Anbar comes during rising regional tensions. The conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran continues to escalate. The United States Department of State previously designated Ansar Allah al-Awfiya as a terrorist organization.
Officials linked the designation to attacks on U.S. forces. One incident included a 2024 drone attack on a military outpost in Jordan.
Analysts warn that the PMF strike in Anbar could deepen instability in Iraq if retaliation follows.
