Israel preparing for possible Iran-backed militia attack from Iraq

Israeli security agencies are preparing for a potential large-scale attack by Iran-backed militias in Iraq, similar to the Hamas assault on October 7, Israeli media reported on Friday.

According to sources cited by Walla, the IDF and Mossad believe militias supported by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) could launch missiles and drones from Iraqi territory against Israeli targets. A ground operation through Iraq and Syria toward the Jordan-Israel border is considered a secondary option.

The report says Esmail Qaani, commander of the IRGC-Quds Force, recently held meetings in Iraq with militia leaders to coordinate potential operations. Groups such as Kataib Hezbollah, a key faction within the Popular Mobilisation Forces, are believed to possess long-range drones and advanced smuggling networks connecting Iraq and Syria.

Israel has repeatedly targeted militia infrastructure in the region, including strikes on logistical hubs along the Iraq-Iran border during Operation Rising Lion, according to foreign reports. Israeli officials have also relayed warnings to Baghdad via Washington.

Security analysts say growing coordination between Iraqi groups and Hezbollah in Lebanon raises the threat level. Harakat al-Nujaba, another Iran-aligned militia, has claimed responsibility for missile launches in the past and is seen as an emerging risk.

The preparations come amid rising regional tensions and continued warnings that Iran may activate multiple fronts against Israel through proxy forces.