The term **"Iran-backed militia"** broadly refers to a network of primarily Shiite armed groups in the Middle East, notably in Iraq, that receive substantial political, financial, and military support from the Iranian regime, particularly its Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and Quds Force. These militias operate as proxies to extend Iran’s regional influence, often acting independently of the states where they are based but aligned with Tehran’s strategic objectives[1][2][6]. In Iraq, the most prominent umbrella organization is the **Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF)**, formed in 2014 during the war against ISIS. The PMF comprises about 67 factions, almost all Iranian-backed, including well-known groups such as Kataib Hizbollah, Asaib Ahl al-Haqq, and Haraka Hizbullah al-Nujaba. Although officially part of the Iraqi state security forces, PMF factions frequently follow directives from Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and collaborate closely with the IRGC. This relationship blurs the lines between Iraqi sovereignty and Iranian influence[2][5][7]. These militias are known for their military operations targeting U.S. and coalition forces, Turkish bases, and domestic adversaries in Iraq, using tactics such as drone strikes, rockets, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Since the killing of Iranian General Qassim Soleimani and PMF Deputy Chairman Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis in early 2020, Iran-backed militias have intensified attacks on foreign and domestic targets to assert control and retaliate against U.S. presence[1][3][5]. Beyond military actions, these militias exert significant political and economic influence in Iraq, often engaging in corruption, monopolizing resources, and undermining government functionality. The U.S. Treasury Department has sanctioned numerous individuals and entities linked to these militias, citing their role in destabilizing Iraq and threatening U.S. interests[4]. Notably, Iran-backed milit