Sources Allege Secret Networks Conducted Drone Operations
BAGHDAD: Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has reportedly established new covert cells in Iraq to conduct attacks against Gulf countries hosting American military forces, according to a Reuters report citing Iraqi security officials and militia sources.
According to the report, three to four small groups, each consisting of roughly 10 elite fighters, allegedly carried out at least seven drone attacks between April 20 and May 17. The attacks reportedly originated from desert areas near Basra and Samawa and targeted sites in Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.
Sources said some members were recruited from the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an umbrella network of Shiite armed factions. However, the newly formed groups reportedly operate outside traditional militia command structures and answer directly to the IRGC.
Security officials and militia commanders quoted in the report described the move as a shift in Iranian strategy designed to maintain regional influence while reducing exposure and limiting direct links to established proxy groups.
Regional Security Concerns Intensify Amid Political Changes
Meanwhile, the allegations emerge as several Iraq-based factions have signaled a willingness to reduce military activities and focus on domestic politics. Some groups have also announced plans to surrender weapons to state authorities following repeated pressure from Washington.
Analysts cited in the report suggested the new cells are smaller, more tightly controlled, and focused on operational secrecy. Iraqi officials reportedly believe the structure allows Tehran to maintain plausible deniability while preserving its ability to project influence across the region.
The report further stated that Iraqi authorities are investigating several drone incidents, including attacks targeting facilities in Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. Some Gulf states have already raised concerns with Baghdad regarding alleged cross-border operations launched from Iraqi territory.
Additionally, Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi recently discussed plans with US officials aimed at ensuring armed groups outside state control are disbanded and preventing Iraqi territory from being used to threaten regional stability.
The allegations come at a sensitive time as regional powers continue diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions following months of conflict and economic disruption across the Middle East.
