Baghdad hosted a funeral procession for members of the Popular Mobilisation Forces killed during U.S. and Saudi airstrikes in Iraq [1].
The event underscores the escalating tension between Western-backed coalitions and Iran-backed militias operating within Iraqi borders. These strikes signal a coordinated military effort by the U.S. and Saudi Arabia to degrade militia capabilities in the region.
The airstrikes targeted bases located in Muqdadiyah, within the Diyala province [2]. According to reports, at least 20 members of the PMF, also known as Hashd al-Shaabi, died in the attacks [3]. The PMF is a predominantly Shia umbrella organization that operates as a state-sponsored force, but maintains close ties to Iran.
U.S. and Saudi forces carried out the operations to target Iran-backed militias [4]. The strikes occurred on July 10, 2026, shattering a brief lull in fighting between regional powers [5]. The funeral in Baghdad served as a public demonstration of grief and a political statement regarding the presence of foreign military forces in the country.
Security officials have not provided a detailed breakdown of the casualties beyond the initial count of 20 deaths [3]. The strikes in Muqdadiyah were part of a broader strategy to disrupt the logistics and command structures of militias that the U.S. and Saudi Arabia identify as threats to regional stability [4].
Local residents and PMF supporters gathered in the capital to honor the deceased. The procession highlighted the deep internal divisions in Iraq, where the central government must balance its security relationship with the U.S. against the influence of powerful, Iran-aligned paramilitary groups [2].
“At least 20 members of the PMF, also known as Hashd al-Shaabi, died in the attacks.”
The coordination between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia in targeting PMF bases indicates a strategic alignment against Iranian influence in Iraq. By striking in Diyala province, the coalition is targeting a critical corridor for militia activity. This escalation increases the risk of retaliatory strikes and places the Iraqi government in a precarious position, as it must maintain sovereignty while managing the volatile relationship between its state-sanctioned militias and foreign military powers.
