Iraq's PMF condemns joint US-Saudi strikes as dangerous escalation

In an official statement, the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) of Iraq condemned the joint US-Saudi airstrikes that targeted several of its official bases across the country on Tuesday morning. The PMF described the attacks as a very dangerous escalation and a flagrant violation of Iraq's territorial integrity. Preliminary reports indicated that a number of personnel were killed and wounded, and damage was inflicted on some buildings and property belonging to the organization.

The statement emphasized that the attacks targeted Iraq's official security institutions, calling them a breach of the country's sovereignty. The PMF added that relevant departments were conducting field assessments and that the process of evaluating the damage and compiling accurate figures was ongoing.

The joint US-Saudi strikes come amid heightened tensions in the region, with Iraq often caught in the crossfire of geopolitical rivalries. The PMF, also known as Hashd al-Shaabi, is a state-sponsored umbrella organization composed of various militias, many of which have close ties to Iran. The group has been a key player in the fight against ISIS and holds significant influence in Iraqi politics.

According to Mehr News Agency, the PMF's reaction underscores the growing friction between Iraq and the US-led coalition, as Iraqi officials have repeatedly called for the withdrawal of foreign forces from the country. The incident is likely to further strain relations between Baghdad and Washington.