Iraq Situation Report

ISF operations to recapture Ramadi remain stalled, but remain the ISF’s main effort.

Challenges are mounting against PM Abadi’s government and the ISF in Baghdad. Following the kidnapping of the 18 Turkish workers last week, likely by Iranian-backed Shi'a militias, this week witnessed the kidnapping of a former Sunni advisor from Anbar.

Popular demonstrations continued across southern Iraq while Iranian proxy groups escalated against the Iraqi government by denouncing protests and releasing an anonymous video of the Turkish hostages kidnapped in Baghdad, demanding adjustments to Turkey’s policies in the region.

PM Haidar al-Abadi continues to take actions to ensure that the government implements his reform agenda.

Iranian-backed Shi'a militias are challenging PM Abadi's authority through political means and the use of force in the wake of PM Abadi’s recent reforms.

The powerbrokers leading the most lethal Iranian-backed Shi’a militias are taking actions to undermine PM Abadi’s reforms.