Airstrikes hit PMF sites in Iraq amid rising US-Israel tensions

Iraq’s Popular Mobilization Forces said Monday that coordinated airstrikes targeted two of its facilities in northern and northeastern Iraq, in what it described as part of escalating US-Israel military activity linked to the broader Iran conflict.

Targets in Nineveh and Tuz Khurmatu

According to the PMF statement, an intelligence center affiliated with its 25th Brigade was hit in the Hatra area of Nineveh province during early morning hours. Shortly afterward, additional strikes were reported against positions linked to the 52nd Brigade near al-Haliwah airport in Tuz Khurmatu, a strategically located district in northeastern Iraq.

No casualties but security concerns rise

The group confirmed that no fatalities or injuries were recorded following the attacks. However, the incidents have raised fresh concerns about the vulnerability of Iraq’s security infrastructure, particularly in areas close to key transport and energy corridors that are significant for regional stability, including routes affecting Türkiye.

Background of PMF and regional tensions

Formed in 2014 following a religious decree by Ali al-Sistani to combat داعش (ISIS), the PMF was later incorporated into Iraq’s official security apparatus. The United States has repeatedly alleged that some factions within the group maintain ties with Iran, especially those operating under the “Islamic Resistance in Iraq,” which has claimed attacks on US military bases.

Wider conflict impacting the region

The reported strikes come amid a broader military escalation since late February, when the United States and Israel intensified operations targeting Iran. Tehran has since responded with drone and missile attacks across the region, including in Iraq and neighboring countries. The ongoing confrontation has disrupted infrastructure, energy markets and air travel, increasing geopolitical risks across the Middle East and directly affecting regional actors such as Türkiye.