Thousands of Iraqis Say They Are Ready to Defend Iran if the US Attacks
Around 5,000 people in Diyala province in eastern Iraq have publicly offered to help defend Iran if the United States ever attacks it. They signed pledges saying they are willing to support both Iraq’s own security forces and Iranian forces without pay. (Mehr News Agency)
The volunteers said they are acting out of concern about rising tensions in the region. They signed a statement declaring they reject any American military action against Iran and are ready to act “at any time” under the orders of Iraq’s military leadership. (Mehr News Agency)
The group organizing the volunteers said they are not part of any specific armed militia, but ordinary people prepared to serve as extra support if needed. They have each submitted their names to Iraq’s military so they can be called up if a crisis happens. (Mehr News Agency)
Some volunteers have spoken publicly, saying they came forward out of loyalty to their communities and because they feel there could be danger ahead. They have stressed that they do not want money — they are volunteering for what they see as a higher purpose. (nournews.ir)
This development comes amid increased tensions between the US and Iran in recent weeks, including diplomatic talks and a larger American military presence in the region. (iranintl.com)
Why tensions are high between the U.S. and Iran
Tensions between the United States and Iran have been high for years, and they keep rising because of politics, military power, and regional control in the Middle East. One major reason is that the U.S. sees Iran as a threat because of its influence over armed groups in Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen. Iran supports these groups, while the U.S. supports governments and forces that oppose them, which puts both countries on opposite sides of many conflicts.
Another major issue is Iran’s nuclear program. The U.S. fears that Iran could develop nuclear weapons, while Iran says its program is for energy and peaceful purposes. When the U.S. withdrew from the nuclear deal in 2018 and reimposed heavy sanctions, relations became much worse. These sanctions hurt Iran’s economy, increased inflation, and created deep resentment toward Washington.
There have also been direct military confrontations and near conflicts. The U.S. has carried out airstrikes against Iran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria, while Iran and its allies have targeted U.S. bases and ships in the region. The killing of Iranian military leader Qassem Soleimani by the U.S. in 2020 dramatically escalated hostility and left lasting bitterness.
At the same time, both countries are competing for power and influence in the Middle East. The U.S. wants to limit Iran’s reach, while Iran wants to push back against what it sees as American domination. This ongoing struggle, combined with economic pressure, military activity, and political mistrust, is why tensions remain dangerously high — and why some Iraqis now say they are ready to defend Iran if a war breaks out.
