Daijiworld Media Network - Baghdad
Baghdad, Jan 26: Iran-backed Iraqi paramilitary group Kataib Hezbollah has warned of a “total war” if Iran is attacked, signalling military support for Tehran as the United States continues to strengthen its military presence in the Middle East.
The group’s chief, Abu Hussein al Hamidawi, issued a strong statement late Sunday, urging fighters to remain prepared for war. Describing Iran as the “fortress and pride” of Muslims, he claimed that “forces of darkness” were gathering to subjugate and destroy the Islamic Republic.
“We affirm to the enemies that war against the Islamic Republic will not be a walk in the park,” al Hamidawi said, adding that adversaries would “taste the bitterest forms of death” in the region.
His remarks come amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran. During a previous confrontation in June last year, regional allies of Iran — collectively known as the “axis of resistance” — including Hezbollah in Lebanon and Iraqi armed groups, did not intervene militarily. However, al Hamidawi indicated that the situation could be different this time, stressing the need for axis forces to support Iran “in whatever way they can.”
Kataib Hezbollah is among the largest factions within Iraq’s Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF), which was formed in 2014 to counter the rapid advance of ISIL.
Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, in a phone call with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani on Sunday, urged Baghdad to maintain distance from Tehran. Rubio emphasised that a government under Iranian influence would be unable to prioritise Iraq’s interests, keep it out of regional conflicts or strengthen ties with the United States, according to State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott.
Tensions between the US and Iran have escalated in recent weeks. Earlier this month, US President Donald Trump publicly called on Iranian protesters to take over state institutions, later softening his stance after receiving assurances from Tehran regarding dissidents. Despite this, Washington has dispatched an aircraft carrier strike group to the Middle East, significantly boosting its military presence in the Gulf.
Several international airlines have suspended flights across parts of the region, including routes to Israel, citing fears of escalation.
Iran has reiterated its readiness to defend itself. “Iran is doing everything it can diplomatically, but its armed forces will respond firmly to any violation of the country’s sovereignty,” said Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei on Monday.
Trump on Friday said he was watching Iran “very closely,” noting that a “big force” was being sent towards the region. “And maybe we won’t have to use it,” he said, adding that the deployment was precautionary.
The developments point to growing volatility in the region as diplomatic efforts continue alongside military posturing.