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Strike On Iran-Backed Militia In Baghdad Kills 2 Amid Rising Tensions

MIDEAST

Al Arabiya reporting that a drone strike on an Iran-backed militia HQ in the Iraqi capital, Baghdad, has killed two and injured five according to their sources in the police and health services. Tzvi Joffre at the Jerusalem Post reports comments from Iraqi media that 'US airstrikes targeted the Iran-backed Nujaba movement, a part of the Popular Mobilization Forces.'

  • Comes amid a series of incidents across the region that risk escalating tensions further.
    • The drone strike on Hamas deputy leader Saleh al-Arouri in Beirut that risks Hezbollah launching a more comprehensive assault on Israel
    • The terrorist attack in Kerman City, Iran on 3 Jan that has seen Tehran adopt a more aggressive posture
    • The continued Houthi attacks on shipping in and around the Red Sea that prompted the US and its allies to threaten 'consequences' have all come about in short order, with this morning's strike in Baghdad potentially inflaming tensions further.
  • In a speech on 3 Jan, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah warned that his organisation will not remain 'silent' following the drone strike that killed al-Arouri. However, he fell short of ordering or indicating the onset of a major assault in response, instead indicating that Hezbollah will respond if attacked by Israel.

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