Iraq's government is scrambling to keep Iranian-backed militias out of the fight if the war between the United States and Iran flares up again

Iraq's government is scrambling to keep Iranian-backed militias out of the fight if the war between the United States and Iran flares up again, amid growing fears the groups could slip out of its control. Officials are holding talks and sending forces into remote areas, including Basra. The plan to bring all militia weapons under state control has been pushed off to June 2027, and Washington has warned Iraq could be designated a state sponsor of terrorism.