As the conflict in the Middle East intensifies, much of the world’s attention has been focused on Hezbollah, a powerful ally of Hamas across Israel’s northern border in Lebanon. The group, known for its formidable arsenal, has engaged in limited clashes with Israel along the border in recent days. However, the situation is not limited to this front alone, as Iranian-backed militias in Iraq have also entered the fray, threatening to target U.S. facilities due to American support for Israel.

Ahmad “Abu Hussein” al-Hamidawi, the leader of the Kataib Hezbollah militia, issued a strong statement last Wednesday, asserting, “Our missiles, drones, and special forces are ready to direct qualitative strikes at the American enemy in its bases and disrupt its interests if it intervenes in this battle.” He further extended the threat to include possible missile strikes on Israeli targets.

In the wake of the devastating explosion at a Gaza hospital on Tuesday night, which claimed the lives of hundreds, the group issued another statement placing blame on the United States and its support for Israel for the tragedy. Kataib Hezbollah called for an end to the U.S. presence in Iraq, warning, “These evil people must leave the country. Otherwise, they will taste the fire of hell in this world before the afterlife.”

While no specific group claimed responsibility for the initial drone attack that occurred on Wednesday, a U.S. defense official, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed the attack on the al-Asad military base in western Iraq.

Subsequently, Tashkil al-Waritheen, another Iranian-backed militia, claimed responsibility for a second drone attack, which it stated targeted the al-Harir airbase in northern Iraq. U.S. officials had not immediately commented on the claim of a second attack.

In another development, Iran-aligned groups in Iraq announced the formation of a “joint operations room” to support Hamas in its ongoing conflict with Israel.

Anonymous officials from Iranian-backed militias in Iraq confirmed the attacks on the two bases on Wednesday. These groups stand ready, prepared to join the wider conflict against Israel. However, they await Iran’s authorization to open a new front. Leaders from various factions are positioned in Lebanon and Syria, ready to act if they receive orders to proceed.

The situation remains highly volatile, and the actions of these militias have added another layer of complexity to the ongoing tensions in the region. As the world watches these developments unfold, the potential for further escalation remains a matter of concern for international peace and security.