U.S. Airstrikes Target Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces, Resulting in Casualties

On March 24, 2026, airstrikes targeting a site belonging to Iraq's Shi'ite Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) in the Anbar province resulted in the deaths of at least six fighters, including the PMF's Anbar operations commander, Saad al-Baiji. Additionally, 15 others were reported wounded. The PMF, an umbrella group of mostly Shi'ite paramilitary factions integrated into Iraq's state security forces, accused the United States of conducting the airstrike, asserting that it targeted a command headquarters while personnel were on duty.

ReutersThe Straits TimesAirstrikes injure PMF member in central Iraq

The PMF, known in Arabic as Hashd al-Shaabi, has been involved in various military operations in Iraq and is aligned with Iran. The recent airstrikes are part of a broader pattern of attacks against Iran-backed groups in Iraq, which have escalated since the onset of the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran. Iran-backed armed factions have retaliated by launching attacks on U.S. bases in Iraq, indicating a cycle of violence that has intensified in recent months.

The Straits TimesReutersAirstrikes injure PMF member in central Iraq

In a related incident, airstrikes on March 22 targeted PMF positions in Jurf al-Sakhar, Babil province, injuring at least one member. The PMF reported that these strikes were also attributed to the United States, causing significant damage to their facilities. Furthermore, on March 23, another airstrike in western Iraq killed three PMF fighters and wounded several others, targeting the offices of the Anbar Operations Command.

Airstrikes injure PMF member in central IraqReutersThe Straits Times

The PMF confirmed the death of Saad al-Baiji and condemned the airstrikes, emphasizing the ongoing threat posed by U.S. military actions in the region. The group has consistently maintained that these strikes undermine Iraq's sovereignty and contribute to regional instability.

Airstrikes injure PMF member in central Iraq

Critics of the U.S. airstrikes argue that such military actions exacerbate tensions in Iraq and may lead to further retaliatory attacks by Iran-aligned groups. They contend that the strikes not only threaten the lives of Iraqi fighters but also complicate the already fragile security situation in the region.

Airstrikes injure PMF member in central Iraq

While the PMF and various security sources report the number of casualties and the identity of the deceased, discrepancies exist regarding the exact details of the airstrikes and the extent of damage inflicted. Some reports indicate varying numbers of casualties in different incidents, highlighting the chaotic nature of the ongoing conflict.

Airstrikes injure PMF member in central Iraq

• “airstrike targeted a command headquarters while personnel were on duty.” — PMF Statement

The Straits Times

The situation remains fluid, with ongoing military actions likely to provoke further responses from Iran-backed factions in Iraq.

The Straits Times