Trump ADDS 4 Iraqi Militias To Terror List – He’s Targeting Them Next!

The Trump administration strikes back against Iran’s proxy network, officially designating four Iranian-backed Iraqi militias as Foreign Terrorist Organizations after months of deadly attacks on American forces.

Story Highlights

Four Iran-backed Iraqi militias officially designated as Foreign Terrorist Organizations by State Department
Groups conducted repeated attacks on U.S. forces in Iraq, Syria, and Jordan throughout 2023-2024
Designations trigger immediate financial restrictions and legal prohibitions on material support
Move represents escalation in U.S. strategy to counter Iranian influence in Iraq

Trump Administration Takes Decisive Action

The U.S. State Department designated Harakat al-Nujaba, Kataib Sayyid al-Shuhada, Harakat Ansar Allah al-Awfiya, and Kataib al-Imam Ali as Foreign Terrorist Organizations. These Iranian-backed militias conducted systematic attacks against American military personnel and assets across Iraq, Syria, and Jordan. The designations represent the first time these specific groups received FTO status, escalating beyond previous Treasury sanctions that proved insufficient to stop their aggression against U.S. forces.

These militias emerged from the chaos following the 2003 U.S. invasion of Iraq and gained prominence during the fight against ISIS beginning in 2014. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps-Quds Force provided funding, training, and strategic direction to these proxy groups. Operating under the Popular Mobilization Forces umbrella, they maintained semi-autonomous status within Iraq’s security apparatus while serving Iranian interests. This dual role allowed them to attack American forces while claiming legitimacy as part of Iraq’s official defense structure.

Pattern of Escalating Attacks on American Forces

From October 2023 through January 2024, these militias orchestrated repeated attacks targeting U.S. and coalition forces as part of the “Islamic Resistance of Iraq” coalition. The groups utilized rockets, drones, and improvised explosive devices to strike American bases and personnel. These attacks intensified regional tensions and demonstrated Iran’s willingness to use Iraqi proxies to challenge U.S. presence in the region. The consistent nature of these attacks showed coordinated planning and Iranian backing, making clear these were not isolated incidents but part of a broader strategy.

The June 2025 Israeli airstrike that killed senior figures from these groups further highlighted their regional threat. This action occurred amid broader Iran-Israel tensions and demonstrated how these militias operate beyond Iraq’s borders. Their activities in Syria and Lebanon expanded their threat profile, making them regional security concerns rather than localized Iraqi issues.

Legal and Financial Consequences

The FTO designations trigger immediate legal restrictions prohibiting U.S. persons and entities from providing material support to these organizations. Financial institutions must freeze assets belonging to designated groups, while violators face criminal prosecution and severe penalties. These measures target the financial networks that enable militia operations and recruitment. The Treasury Department’s enforcement mechanisms create real consequences for anyone attempting to support these terrorist organizations.

Yes! Go after all of them!
US ‘ups the ante,’ designates Iran-backed groups in Iraq terrorist organizationshttps://t.co/SUZBA8SYQs

— Elder Max (@Patriot9_11) September 18, 2025

This designation builds on previous Specially Designated Global Terrorist listings that focused primarily on asset freezes and sanctions. The FTO status carries additional immigration consequences, preventing militia members from entering the United States and enabling their removal. This comprehensive approach addresses both operational funding and personnel movement, creating multiple pressure points against Iranian proxy networks threatening American interests.