Treasury sanctions Iran-backed militias in Iraq as part of pressure campaign
The Treasury Department is sanctioning some of the “most violent” Iranian-backed Iraqi militias as part of its broader effort to subdue Tehran.
The sanctions target at least five militias, including Kata’ib Hezbollah and Asa’ib Ahl Al-Haqq.
The U.S. government claims it has attacked U.S. personnel and innocent civilians in Iraq, siphoned off Iraqi wealth to fund terrorism, and undermined Iraq’s sovereignty and democratic processes.
“We will not allow Iraqi terrorist militias, supported by Iran, to threaten American lives or interests,” Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said. “Those who enable the violence of these militias will be held accountable. »
The Treasury Department has listed several militia leaders who, with Iranian support, attacked U.S. and coalition forces fighting the Islamic State or stationed in Iraq.
One of the militias was linked to the recent kidnapping of American journalist Shelly Kittleson in Iraq. She was arrested on a street in Baghdad on March 31 and released on April 7.
The sanctions aim to block the property interests and assets of militias that are in the United States or controlled by individuals with ties to the United States. Sanctions violations may result in criminal and civil penalties.
Treasury officials announced the sanctions as part of President Trump’s pressure campaign on Iran.
The president, who ordered a military operation with Israel against Iran on February 28, wants Tehran to stop seeking to acquire nuclear weapons.
Mr Trump said a new round of peace talks could take place this weekend in Pakistan.
Iranian officials announced the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz on Friday, a day after Israel and Lebanon agreed to a 10-day ceasefire. The move was seen as a crucial step toward reaching a peace deal and reducing the economic shocks caused by the war.
