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Iraqi Militias Deploy to Iran, Suppress Protests Amid Violence

1/18/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Iranian-backed Iraqi militias, including the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), are actively suppressing protests in Iran.
Eyewitness accounts indicate these militias crossed into Iran to aid the regime, citing nearly 5,000 fighters.
Some reports allege death tolls, with Iraqi militias now backing the regime.
Increased flights from Iraq to Iran raise concerns about the militias' role in quelling dissent.

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Story summary

Iranian-backed Iraqi militias, including the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), are actively suppressing protests in Iran.
Eyewitness accounts indicate these militias crossed into Iran to aid the regime, citing nearly 5,000 fighters.
Some reports allege death tolls, with Iraqi militias now backing the regime.
Increased flights from Iraq to Iran raise concerns about the militias' role in quelling dissent.