The Rise of Greater Iran: Analyzing Recent Developments in Iraq
Recent developments in Iraq indicate a significant shift towards the emergence of Greater Iran, as the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) actively target U.S. military bases. A video released by Iranian media showcases drone footage of the Victoria base in Baghdad, highlighting the PMF's capabilities and intentions. Formed to combat ISIS, the PMF has gained constitutional recognition and is now seen as a key player in the region's power dynamics. With the Iraqi government reportedly supporting the PMF, the landscape is rapidly changing, raising questions about the future of U.S. presence in Iraq and the broader implications for Middle Eastern geopolitics.
Mar 27, 2026, 13:39 IST
Emerging Dynamics in Iraq
Israel's aspirations for a Greater Israel seem to be overshadowed by the rapid emergence of a Greater Iran. Recent developments indicate a significant shift, particularly concerning the U.S. military presence in Iraq. A video shared by Iranian media showcases a drone capturing footage of the Victoria base in Baghdad, which is reportedly operated by the U.S. The drone reveals various aspects of the base, including an American air defense system, before recording an explosion and subsequently targeting two U.S. Air Force helicopters stationed there.
The Role of Popular Mobilization Forces
This footage was released by Hashd al-Shaabi, commonly known as the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF). Currently, the PMF is actively targeting U.S. forces in Iraq under the pretext of a broader conflict involving Iran and Israel. Their objective appears to be to compel the U.S. to withdraw its military presence from Iraq, which has been ongoing since the fall of Saddam Hussein. The PMF's actions are seen as a step towards granting Iraq complete sovereignty.
Historical Context and Current Implications
Formed in 2014 under a fatwa from Ayatollah Sistani to combat ISIS, the PMF has gained constitutional recognition as a security force reporting directly to the Iraqi Prime Minister. This recognition has led to concerns regarding Iran's increasing influence in Iraq, particularly due to the significance of religious sites like Karbala and Najaf for the Iranian population. The annual pilgrimage, known as Arbaeen, attracts many Iranian Shia Muslims, further solidifying Iran's cultural ties to Iraq.
Security Challenges and Future Prospects
During previous Arbaeen pilgrimages, ISIS attempted to disrupt the journey, but the PMF, with Iranian support, successfully ensured the safety of the pilgrims. This has fostered trust in the PMF, which is now collaborating with Iran to expel U.S. forces from Iraq. Experts have long speculated that any direct attack on Iran would likely be launched from Iraqi territory, but the PMF has thwarted U.S. plans to use Iraq as a staging ground for such actions. Reports suggest that U.S. and NATO forces are now withdrawing from Iraq, indicating a significant shift in the region's power dynamics.
Government Support for PMF
It is also claimed that the Iraqi government supports the PMF, aligning with their vision of complete independence. In 2004, NATO and U.S. forces were heavily deployed in Iraq, but their numbers have dwindled to approximately 2,500 troops today, with NATO missions accounting for an additional 3,000 to 4,000 personnel from various countries. The situation is evolving rapidly, with pro-Iranian forces exerting considerable pressure to achieve full liberation for Iraq.