Story perspectives

Iraqi Militia Leader Charged Over Iran-Backed US, Europe Plots

5/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

Mohammad al-Saadi, an Iraqi militia leader, was charged in a federal court for plotting attacks in U.S., Europe and Canada.
Al-Saadi, a senior figure in Iran-backed Kataib Hezbollah, helped plan at least twenty attacks in Europe and Canada since the U.S.–Israeli campaign against Iran began in late February.
Aaron Y. Zelin, a Washington Institute for Near East Policy expert, warned the case shows Iran’s proxy network extending into Western countries.

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Story summary

Mohammad al-Saadi, an Iraqi militia leader, was charged in a federal court for plotting attacks in U.S., Europe and Canada.
Al-Saadi, a senior figure in Iran-backed Kataib Hezbollah, helped plan at least twenty attacks in Europe and Canada since the U.S.–Israeli campaign against Iran began in late February.
Aaron Y. Zelin, a Washington Institute for Near East Policy expert, warned the case shows Iran’s proxy network extending into Western countries.