Siamand Mashhadani was an alleged general of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ elite Quds Force (IRGC-QF),“US confirms bombing Iraq’s Shia Kata’eb Hezbollah militia after rocket strike at base near Baghdad killed 2 troops,” RT News, March 13, 2020, https://www.rt.com/usa/482986-iraq-bombing-us-retaliation-taji/. a U.S.-designated Foreign Terrorist Organization responsible for Iran’s proxy conflicts in the Middle East.“Anti-Terrorism Designations,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, March 27, 2012, https://www.treasury.gov/resource-center/sanctions/OFAC-Enforcement/Pages/20120327.aspx.

On March 13, 2020, Mashhadani and four other IRGC-QF members were purportedly killed in a U.S.-led airstrike that was carried out in retaliation for the deaths of two U.S. service members and a British soldier in a rocket attack on Camp Taji on March 11, 2020.Seth J. Frantzman, “Was Iranian IRGC General 'Siamand Mashhadani' killed in US airstrikes?,” J Post, March 13, 2020, https://www.jpost.com/Middle-East/Was-Iranian-IRGC-General-Siamand-Mashhadani-killed-in-US-airstrikes-620862. The retaliatory airstrikes targeted five weapons storage facilities in Jurf al-Nasr, al-Musayyib, Najaf, and Alexandria used by Kata’ib Hezbollah (KH), an Iranian-backed militia in Iraq.Rebecca Kheel, “Top general: Iran threat 'remains very high' after US strikes on proxy militia in Iraq,” The Hill, March 13, 2020, https://thehill.com/policy/defense/487417-top-general-iran-threat-remains-very-high-after-us-strikes-on-proxy-militia-in.; Jack Detsch, “Pentagon retaliates after deadly Iran-backed strikes on US troops,” Al-Monitor, March 13, 2020, https://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2020/03/pentagon-retaliate-iran-backed-strike-us-troops.html. Mashhadani reportedly played a role at the headquarters of the 46th and 47th KH brigades of the Popular Mobilization Forces, an umbrella group for the Iran-backed Iraqi militias.Seth J. Frantzman, “Was Iranian IRGC General 'Siamand Mashhadani' killed in US airstrikes?,” J Post, March 13, 2020, https://www.jpost.com/Middle-East/Was-Iranian-IRGC-General-Siamand-Mashhadani-killed-in-US-airstrikes-620862?utm_source=+U.S.+Strikes+Iran-Backed+Militias+In+Iraq&utm_campaign=eye-on-iran&utm_medium=email.; Phillip Smyth, “Making Sense of Iraq's PMF Arrests,” Washington Institute, April 26, 2019, https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/policy-analysis/view/making-sense-of-the-arrests-within-iraqs-pmf.

Abu Fadak Al-Mohammedawi is the chief of staff of Iraq’s Shiite-led Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), or Hashd al-Shaabi, an umbrella group for the Iran-backed Iraqi militias.“Iraq: PMF Names Muhandis’ Successor,” Asharq Al-Awsat, February 22, 2020, https://aawsat.com/english/home/article/2144071/iraq-pmf-names-muhandis%E2%80%99-successor. Prior to his appointment, Mohammedawi served as the secretary-general of Iran-backed Iraqi Shiite militia Kata’ib Hezbollah (KH), one of the units of the PMF.“Iraq’s PMF appoints new deputy head as successor to Al-Muhandis,” Middle East Monitor, February 21, 2020, https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20200221-iraqs-pmf-appoints-new-deputy-head-as-successor-to-al-muhandis/. The PMF has also grown into a powerful political force in Iraq as members of the umbrella group hold the most seats in Iraqi parliament.“AP Explains: Who are Iraq’s Iran-backed militias?,” Associated Press, December 31, 2019, https://apnews.com/57a346b17d6da07ae732ba1437520fd2.

Mohammedawi, whose real name is Abd al-Aziz Malluh Mirjirash al-Muhammadawi, entered the Iraqi paramilitary scene in the 1980s, when he served as an aide to Hadi Amri, the head of the Badr Organization. Mohammedawi was assigned intelligence tasks, and during this time, became close to Major General Qassem Soleimani, the former head of Iran’s Quds Force, who was later killed in a U.S. led airstrike on January 3, 2020.“Iran-related Designations and Designations Updates; Counter Terrorism Designation,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, January 13, 2021, https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/financial-sanctions/recent-actions/20210113; “Iraq: PMF Names Muhandis’ Successor,” Asharq Al-Awsat, February 22, 2020, https://aawsat.com/english/home/article/2144071/iraq-pmf-names-muhandis%E2%80%99-successor.; Julian Berger and Martin Chulov, “US kills Iran general Qassem Suleimani in strike ordered by Trump,” Guardian, January 3, 2020, https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/jan/03/baghdad-airport-iraq-attack-deaths-iran-us-tensions.

It is suspected that Mohammedawi joined KH in 1997, and quickly became a part of its inner core in carrying out operations against Saddam Hussein’s government.Suadad al-Salhy, “Iran and Najaf struggle for control over Hashd al-Shaabi after Muhandis's killing,” Middle East Eye, February 16, 2020, https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/iran-and-najaf-struggle-control-over-hashd-al-shaabi-after-muhandis-killing. Mohammedawi made a name for himself throughout KH due to his military capability and his ability to work well with other militias throughout the PMF.“Iraq’s Shia Militias Name Successor to Official Slain in US Strike Alongside Soleimani – Reports,” Sputnik News, February 21, 2020, https://sputniknews.com/middleeast/202002211078372097-iraqs-shia-militias-name-successor-to-official-slain-in-us-strike-alongside-soleimani---reports/. Additionally, it is suspected the Mohammedawi commanded the militia’s forces in the fight against ISIS in both Iraq and Syria.“Iraq’s Shia Militias Name Successor to Official Slain in US Strike Alongside Soleimani – Reports,” Sputnik News, February 21, 2020, https://sputniknews.com/middleeast/202002211078372097-iraqs-shia-militias-name-successor-to-official-slain-in-us-strike-alongside-soleimani---reports/.; “Successor to killed Iraq militia chief Al Muhandis named,” The National, February 21, 2020, https://www.thenational.ae/world/mena/successor-to-killed-iraq-militia-chief-al-muhandis-named-1.982433.

According to Al Arabiya, Mohammadawi briefly left KH due to an issue regarding a ransom payout following KH’s kidnapping of Qatari hunters in 2015. However, following orders from Soleimani in October of 2019, Mohammadawi returned to KH, presumably under the role of secretary-general.“Meet ‘the uncle’ Abu Fadak, the new head of Iran-backed PMU militias in Iraq,” Al-Arabiya, February 22, 2020, https://english.alarabiya.net/en/features/2020/02/22/Who-is-Abu-Fadak-the-uncle-al-Mohammadawi-the-new-head-of-PMU-militias-.html. There is speculation that Mohammedawi was linked to the December 2019 attack on the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad, as the phrase “the uncle passed through here,” was found on the embassy’s walls. Mohammedawi is often called “uncle” among his associates.“Meet ‘the uncle’ Abu Fadak, the new head of Iran-backed PMU militias in Iraq,” Al-Arabiya, February 22, 2020, https://english.alarabiya.net/en/features/2020/02/22/Who-is-Abu-Fadak-the-uncle-al-Mohammadawi-the-new-head-of-PMU-militias-.html. Additionally, Iraqi activists consider Mohammedawi as being responsible for attacks against protesters on the Sinak Bridge and al-Khilani Square on December 7, 2019.“Meet ‘the uncle’ Abu Fadak, the new head of Iran-backed PMU militias in Iraq,” Al-Arabiya, February 22, 2020, https://english.alarabiya.net/en/features/2020/02/22/Who-is-Abu-Fadak-the-uncle-al-Mohammadawi-the-new-head-of-PMU-militias-.html.; Falih Hassan and Alissa J. Rubin, “Protesters Killed and Cleric’s House Bombed in Deepening Iraqi Chaos,” New York Times, December 7, 2020, https://www.nytimes.com/2019/12/07/world/middleeast/iraq-al-Sadr-bombed.html.

Following the death of KH’s commander and former PMF’s deputy chairman, Jamal Jaafar Ibrahimi a.k.a. Abu Mahdi al-Mohandes, by the same U.S.-led airstrike that killed Soleimani, PMF restructured the group’s leadership. The position of deputy chairman was replaced by chief of staff. After weeks of negotiations among PMF officials, on February 21, 2020, Mohammedawi was appointed as the new chief of staff.“Iraq: PMF Names Muhandis’ Successor,” Asharq Al-Awsat, February 22, 2020, https://aawsat.com/english/home/article/2144071/iraq-pmf-names-muhandis%E2%80%99-successor. Mohammedawi was a close associate of Ibrahimi. He is a follower of vilayat-e faqih, or guardianship of the jurist, the Khomeinist doctrine that calls for a single religious cleric to lead the government. Additionally, sources claim that Mohammedawi “does not move without a fatwa.”Suadad al-Salhy, “Iran and Najaf struggle for control over Hashd al-Shaabi after Muhandis's killing,” Middle East Eye, February 16, 2020, https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/iran-and-najaf-struggle-control-over-hashd-al-shaabi-after-muhandis-killing.

On February 10, 2023, Mohammedawi met with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in Aleppo. Details of the talks were limited, but the Institute for the Study of War noted that it may have been a sign that Iran and its proxies could be establishing military efforts in northern Syria.Zachary Coles, Annika Ganzeveld, Nicholas Carl, and Frederick W. Kagan, “Iran Update, February 16, 2023,” Institute for the Study of War, February 16, 2023, https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/iran-update-february-16-2023. A leaked U.S. intelligence document reviewed by the Washington Post in May 2023 also claimed that Iran and its proxies were reportedly able to target U.S. troops in Syria through the smuggling of weapons and ammunition through humanitarian aid earmarked for the region following a disastrous earthquake that killed tens of thousands in February 2024. The classified report reportedly implicated Mohammedawi in the scheme.Alex Horton, Mustafa Salim and Steve Hendrix, “Iran hid weapons among earthquake aid to target U.S. troops, leak says,” Washington Post, May 7, 2023, https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2023/05/07/iran-syria-weapons-leaked-documents/.

A year later, on January 28, 2024, militants from the Islamic Resistance of Iraq (IRI)—an umbrella group comprising multiple Iran-backed Shiite militias—launched a drone strike on Tower 22, a U.S. outpost in Jordan. On January 30, KH announced it would suspend military and security operations against U.S. forces to “prevent embarrassment of the Iraqi government.”Timour Azhari, “Iraq's Kataib Hezbollah says it suspends attacks on US forces,” Reuters, January 30, 2024, https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/iraqs-kataib-hezbollah-suspends-military-operations-us-forces-statement-2024-01-30/. In response, U.S. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby claimed that KH supported the militants who carried out the attack and dismissed KH’s claims of suspended operations, stating the group cannot be taken at face value.Natasha Bertrand, Oren Liebermann and Haley Britzky, “Drone that killed US soldiers in Jordan followed American drone onto base, causing confusion,” CNN, January 29, 2024, https://www.cnn.com/2024/01/29/politics/us-soldiers-deaths-jordan/index.html; Jon Gambrell, Aamer Madhani, and Zeke Miller, “US pins blame for deadly drone strike on Iran-backed militias in the Islamic Resistance in Iraq,” Associated Press, January 31, 2024, https://apnews.com/article/yemen-houthi-us-navy-mideast-tensions-israel-hamas-red-sea-6d5662d09aad8aed0875025b75928ef5; Jane Arraf, “Who are the Iranian-backed militias attacking U.S. forces in Jordan, “Who are the Iranian-backed militias attacking U.S. forces in Jordan,” NPR, January 29, 2024, https://www.npr.org/2024/01/29/1227695808/who-are-the-iranian-backed-militias-attacking-u-s-forces-in-jordan; Dan Sabbagh, “Jordan drone strike: who are Islamic Resistance in Iraq and what is Tower 22?,” Guardian (London), January 29, 2024, https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/jan/29/jordan-drone-strike-who-are-islamic-resistance-in-iraq-and-what-is-tower-22; C. Todd Lopez, “3 U.S. Service Members Killed, Others Injured in Jordan Following Drone Attack,” U.S. Department of Defense, January 29, 2024, https://www.defense.gov/News/News-Stories/Article/Article/3659809/3-us-service-members-killed-others-injured-in-jordan-following-drone-attack/. Given Mohammedawi’s position as PMU chief of staff, the periodical the Hill noted that it is likely he ordered the attack on Tower 22.Jonathan Sweet and Mark Toth, “Biden should know by now why his message to Iran isn’t getting through,” Hill, February 8, 2024, https://thehill.com/opinion/national-security/4454113-biden-should-know-by-now-why-his-message-to-iran-isnt-getting-through/.

The attack on Tower 22 occurred in the midst of the Hamas-Israel war, which was launched in October 2023 after Hamas’s October 7 terrorist attack on Israel. Since then, Mohammedawi has been vocal on the ongoing violence in the Gaza Strip. During a Quds Day march in Tehran on April 5, 2024, Mohammedawi appeared alongside Ziad al-Nakhalah, head of the terrorist group Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) and stated that the “PMF is a fundamental part of the battle in Gaza and Palestine.”Amir al-Kaabi, Hamdi Malik, Michael Knights, “Iraqi PMF Chief of Staff Commits to Fulfill Iranian Supreme Leader's Plans,” Washington Institute for Near East Policy, April 8, 2024, https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/policy-analysis/iraqi-pmf-chief-staff-commits-fulfill-iranian-supreme-leaders-plans.

Ali Musa Daqduq is a Hezbollah commander who has trained Iran-backed militants to attack U.S. forces in Iraq. The United States accuses Daqduq of orchestrating a January 20, 2007, attack on U.S. troops in Karbala, Iraq, that killed five.“Daqduq Tribunal Chargesheet,” New York Times, January 3, 2012, https://assets.documentcloud.org/documents/302052/daqduq-tribunal-chargesheet.pdf. Daqduq was imprisoned in Iraq for his role in the attack but was freed in 2012.“Treasury Sanctions Hizballah Leadership,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, August 22, 2013, https://www.treasury.gov/press-center/press-releases/Pages/jl2147.aspx; Michael R. Gordon, “Against U.S. Wishes, Iraq Releases Man Accused of Killing American Soldiers,” New York Times, November 16, 2012, https://www.nytimes.com/2012/11/17/world/middleeast/iraq-said-to-release-hezbollah-operative.html. Since 2018, Daqduq has reportedly been building a clandestine Hezbollah network in Syria along the Israeli border.Anna Ahronheim, “Hezbollah’s new terror project mastermind: ‘Worst of the worst’ – Analysis,” Jerusalem Post, March 18, 2019, https://www.jpost.com/Arab-Israeli-Conflict/Daqduq-Hezbollahs-worst-of-the-worst-583413.

Daqduq first joined Hezbollah in 1983. He was soon assigned to command Department 2800, a Special Operations unit in Lebanon. Daqduq later coordinated the personal security of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah.Phil Stewart, “Pentagon chief urges Iraq to keep Daqduq behind bars,” Reuters, June 22, 2012, https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-panetta-iraq/pentagon-chief-urges-iraq-to-keep-daqduq-behind-bars-idUSBRE85L0UM20120622; American Forces Press Service, “Iran Arming, Training, Directing Terror Groups in Iraq, U.S. Official Says,” U.S. Army, July 3, 2007, https://www.army.mil/article/3890/iran_arming_training_directing_terror_groups_in_iraq_us_official_says. In 2005, Hezbollah sent Daqduq to Iran to train militants there alongside the Quds Force, the expeditionary wing of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). According to a U.S. assessment, Daqduq took groups of 20 to 60 Iraqis at a time to training camps inside Iran. These militants received training in intelligence, sniper and kidnapping operations, and explosives, according to U.S. military officials. These militants were part of the so-called Special Groups, Iran-supported militias in Iraq.John F. Burns and Michael R. Gordon, “U.S. Says Iran Helped Iraqis Kill Five G.I.’s,” New York Times, July 3, 2007, https://www.nytimes.com/2007/07/03/world/middleeast/03iraq.html. In May 2006, the Quds Force sent Daqduq to Iraq to train the Special Groups. Daqduq traveled between Iran and Iraq at least four times over the following year to provide resources to Iraqi militants on behalf of Hezbollah. Among his tasks, Daqduq allegedly provided advice, training, and other assistance to Iran-backed militia Asaib Ahl al-Haq (AAH) leaders Qais al-Khazali, Laith al-Khazali, and other AAH members.“Daqduq Tribunal Chargesheet,” New York Times, January 3, 2012, https://assets.documentcloud.org/documents/302052/daqduq-tribunal-chargesheet.pdf.

On January 20, 2007, AAH killed five U.S. soldiers after attacking the Iraqi government’s provincial headquarters in Karbala. Qais and Laith al-Khazali led the attack, which Daqduq is accused of orchestrating.“Daqduq Tribunal Chargesheet,” New York Times, January 3, 2012, https://assets.documentcloud.org/documents/302052/daqduq-tribunal-chargesheet.pdf; Sam Wyer, “The Resurgence of Asa’ib Ahl al-Haq,” Middle East Security Report 7 (December 2012): 12, http://www.understandingwar.org/sites/default/files/ResurgenceofAAH.pdf; “Iraq Releases Man Held In Slayings of U.S. Soldiers,” CNN, June 9, 2009, http://www.cnn.com/2009/WORLD/meast/06/09/iraq.prisoner.release/index.html?_s=PM:WORLD; David D. Kirkpatrick, “Shiite Militias Pose Challenge for U.S. in Iraq,” New York Times, September 16, 2014, http://www.nytimes.com/2014/09/17/world/middleeast/shiite-militias-pose-challenge-for-us-in-iraq.html; “Treasury Sanctions Iran-Backed Militia Leaders Who Killed Innocent Demonstrators in Iraq,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, December 6, 2019, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/sm847. Coalition forces captured Daqduq and the al-Khazali brothers in Basra on March 20, 2007.American Forces Press Service, “Iran Arming, Training, Directing Terror Groups in Iraq, U.S. Official Says,” U.S. Army, July 3, 2007, https://www.army.mil/article/3890/iran_arming_training_directing_terror_groups_in_iraq_us_official_says. Daqduq refused to speak for weeks following his capture, which led U.S. forces to give him the nickname Hamid the Mute. Toward the end of April, he passed a note to guards that he would confess on May 1. The delay is suspected of giving compatriots time to hide. Beginning on May 1, Daqduq made multiple confessions to U.S. forces regarding the 2007 attack and Hezbollah’s operations in Iraq.John F. Burns and Michael R. Gordon, “U.S. Says Iran Helped Iraqis Kill Five G.I.’s,” New York Times, July 3, 2007, https://www.nytimes.com/2007/07/03/world/middleeast/03iraq.html; “Man with al-Sadr ties held in attack on U.S. troops,” CNN.com, March 22, 2007, http://www.cnn.com/2007/WORLD/meast/03/22/iraq.main/. According to confessions by Daqduq and Qais al-Khazali, senior members of the Quds Force leadership supported the January 2007 operation.John F. Burns and Michael R. Gordon, “U.S. Says Iran Helped Iraqis Kill Five G.I.’s,” New York Times, July 3, 2007, https://www.nytimes.com/2007/07/03/world/middleeast/03iraq.html.

Laith al-Khazali was released from U.S. military custody in Iraq in June 2009.Alissa J. Rubin and Michael R. Gordon, “U.S. Frees Suspect in Killing of 5 G.I.’s,” New York Times, June 8, 2009, https://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/09/world/middleeast/09release.html?auth=login-smartlock. Qais al-Khazali was released in January 2010.Ernesto Londoño and Leila Fadel, “U.S. failure to neutralize Shiite militia in Iraq threatens to snarl pullout,” Washington Post, March 4, 2010, http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/03/03/AR2010030303674.html; Sam Wyer, “The Resurgence of Asa’ib Ahl al-Haq,” Middle East Security Report 7 (December 2012): 11-12, http://www.understandingwar.org/sites/default/files/ResurgenceofAAH.pdf. By the start of December 2011, the United States was preparing to complete its withdrawal from Iraq by the end of the year. Daqduq was the last remaining security prisoner in U.S. custody and officials wanted to ensure that he would remain in prison. U.S. military and political leaders debated bringing Daqduq back to the United States for prosecution or transferring him to the military facility at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, versus transferring him to Iraqi authorities with the possibility that he would be quickly freed. The 2008 Status of Forces Agreement between Iraq and the United States barred the latter from removing prisoners from Iraq without the consent of the Iraqi government.Charlie Savage, “Detainee in Iraq Poses a Dilemma as U.S. Exit Nears,” New York Times, December 11, 2011, https://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/12/world/middleeast/militarys-last-detainee-in-iraq-poses-dilemma-for-obama.html. President Barack Obama and Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki discussed Daqduq’s fate during a December 12 White House meeting but did not reach a consensus.Mark Landler, “Obama and Iraqi Premier Signify Shift to a Postwar Partnership,” New York Times, December 12, 2011, https://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/13/world/middleeast/obama-meets-maliki-to-chart-broad-shifts-in-iraq.html. On December 16, U.S. forces transferred Daqduq to Iraqi custody after receiving assurances that he would be tried.Charlie Savage, “U.S. Transfers Its Last Prisoner in Iraq to Iraqi Custody,” New York Times, December 16, 2011, https://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/17/world/middleeast/us-transfers-last-prisoner-to-iraqi-government.html.

U.S. officials suspected that Daqduq’s admissions to belonging to Hezbollah and orchestrating the 2007 attack would be dismissed by the Iraqi courts, but instead hoped Daqduq would be sentenced for illegally entering Iraq. Military officials issued assurances that Daqduq had confessed of his own free will and had not been subjected to torture or other enhanced interrogation.Jack Healy and Charlie Savage, “Iraqi Court Acts to Free Suspect in Deadly Raid on G.I.’s,” New York Times, May 7, 2012, https://www.nytimes.com/2012/05/08/world/middleeast/in-case-that-has-vexed-americans-defendant-in-iraq-could-go-free.html?searchResultPosition=5. In preparation for a possible extradition request, U.S. military prosecutors filed charges against Daqduq on January 3, 2012. They charged him with murder, perfidy, terrorism, and espionage.Charlie Savage, “Prisoner in Iraq Tied to Hezbollah Faces U.S. Military Charges,” New York Times, February 23, 2012, https://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/24/world/middleeast/us-approves-military-tribunal-case-for-detainee.html?searchResultPosition=3. Nonetheless, on May 7, 2012, an Iraqi court ordered Daqduq be released from custody based on a lack of evidence linking him to the January 2007 attack.Jack Healy and Charlie Savage, “Iraqi Court Acts to Free Suspect in Deadly Raid on G.I.’s,” New York Times, May 7, 2012, https://www.nytimes.com/2012/05/08/world/middleeast/in-case-that-has-vexed-americans-defendant-in-iraq-could-go-free.html?searchResultPosition=5.

Then-U.S. Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta told Reuters in June 2012 that the Iraqi government had pledged it would not release Daqduq.Phil Stewart, “Pentagon chief urges Iraq to keep Daqduq behind bars,” Reuters, June 22, 2012, https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-panetta-iraq/pentagon-chief-urges-iraq-to-keep-daqduq-behind-bars-idUSBRE85L0UM20120622. The United States sought to extradite Daqduq, but an Iraqi court ruled that the charges against Daqduq had already been dropped and rejected the request that August.Associated Press, “Iraq Blocks US Extradition for Hezbollah Commander,” San Diego Union-Tribune, August 2, 2012, https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sdut-iraq-blocks-us-extradition-for-hezbollah-commander-2012aug02-story.html. Despite U.S. objections, Iraqi officials released Daqduq in November 2012.“Treasury Sanctions Hizballah Leadership,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, August 22, 2013, https://www.treasury.gov/press-center/press-releases/Pages/jl2147.aspx; Michael R. Gordon, “Against U.S. Wishes, Iraq Releases Man Accused of Killing American Soldiers,” New York Times, November 16, 2012, https://www.nytimes.com/2012/11/17/world/middleeast/iraq-said-to-release-hezbollah-operative.html. Hezbollah’s representative in Iraq, Mohammad al-Kawtharani, reportedly helped secure Daqduq’s release.“Treasury Sanctions Hizballah Leadership,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, August 22, 2013, https://www.treasury.gov/press-center/press-releases/Pages/jl2147.aspx; Michael R. Gordon, “Against U.S. Wishes, Iraq Releases Man Accused of Killing American Soldiers,” New York Times, November 16, 2012, https://www.nytimes.com/2012/11/17/world/middleeast/iraq-said-to-release-hezbollah-operative.html.

In March 2019, Israeli media reported that Daqduq was setting up a clandestine Hezbollah network called the Golan Project in the Syrian-controlled Golan Heights. According to Israeli intelligence, the network is collecting intelligence on Israeli military activity along the border. Hezbollah reportedly appointed Daqduq to head up this network in late 2018. According to the Israeli military, Hezbollah set up the network without notifying the Syrian regime.Felicia Schwartz, “Israel Says Hezbollah Operative Is Setting Up a Terror Network in Golan Heights,” Wall Street Journal, March 13, 2019, https://www.wsj.com/articles/israel-says-hezbollah-operative-is-setting-up-a-terror-network-in-golan-heights-11552449610?mod=searchresults&page=1&pos=1; Anna Ahronheim, “Hezbollah’s new terror project mastermind: ‘Worst of the worst’ - Analysis,” Jerusalem Post, March 18, 2019, https://www.jpost.com/Arab-Israeli-Conflict/Daqduq-Hezbollahs-worst-of-the-worst-583413.

Nasr al-Shammary is the deputy secretary-general of the Iran-backed Iraqi militia Harakat Hezbollah al-Nujaba. Nujaba has been at the forefront of the fight against ISIS alongside the Syrian army, Hezbollah, and other Iran-backed Iraqi militias.“Top Iraqi Militia Leader: Fighting for Iran under Soleimani's leadership Is “Blessing from God”,” Middle East Institute, April 5, 2017, http://www.mei.edu/publications/top-iraqi-militia-leader-fighting-iran-under-soleimanis-leadership-blessing-god; Aymenn Jawad Al-Tamimi, “Hashd Brigade Numbers Index,” Aymenn Jawad Al-Tamimi's Blog, October 31, 2017, http://www.aymennjawad.org/2017/10/hashd-brigade-numbers-index. Shammary is avowedly anti-American and has threatened U.S. forces throughout the Middle East.

Nujaba formed in 2013 after ISIS began to capture large swaths of Syria and Iraq.Ali Hashem, “Iraq’s Shiite forces claim victory over IS,” Al-Monitor, March 16, 2015, https://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2015/03/iraq-shiite-hezbollah-nujaba-victory-islamic-state.html. The militia is part of Iraq’s Haashid Shaabi, the umbrella group of anti-ISIS Shiite militias also called Iraq’s Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF). The PMF coordinate anti-ISIS military ventures between the Syrian army and Iranian-sponsored militias.“Top Iraqi Militia Leader: Fighting for Iran under Soleimani's leadership Is “Blessing from God”,” Middle East Institute, April 5, 2017, http://www.mei.edu/publications/top-iraqi-militia-leader-fighting-iran-under-soleimanis-leadership-blessing-god; Aymenn Jawad Al-Tamimi, “Hashd Brigade Numbers Index,” Aymenn Jawad Al-Tamimi's Blog, October 31, 2017, http://www.aymennjawad.org/2017/10/hashd-brigade-numbers-index. In August 2019, Shammary declared the United States to be an enemy of the PMF. He labeled the U.S. Embassy in Iraq a “Den of Espionage,” which he claimed was recruiting media activists to spread propaganda in “soft warfare” against Shiite values.“Shia militia group says it will topple any Iraqi gov. hostile to Iran in ‘weeks,’” Kurdistan 24, August 6, 2019, https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/news/bf35833b-2b55-4df3-b6ec-1a4cf5da2d78.

Shammary is loyal to the Iranian regime, even above his native Iraq. Nujaba adheres to the Khomeinist doctrine of Velayat-e Faqih, or Guardianship of the Jurist, which places religious oversight over all aspects of the government.Ali Hashem, “Iraq’s Shiite forces claim victory over IS,” Al-Monitor, March 16, 2015, https://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2015/03/iraq-shiite-hezbollah-nujaba-victory-islamic-state.html; Babak Dehghanpisheh, “The Iraqi militia helping Iran carve a road to Damascus,” Reuters, September 22, 2017, https://www.reuters.com/investigates/special-report/mideast-crisis-iraq-nujaba/. Nujaba Secretary-General Akram al-Kaabi has declared that he would follow any order from Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, including overthrowing the Iraqi government.“State Department Terrorist Designation of Harakat al-Nujaba (HAN) and Akram ‘Abbas al-Kabi,” U.S. Department of State, March 5, 2019, https://www.state.gov/state-department-terrorist-designation-of-harakat-al-nujaba-han-and-akram-abbas-al-kabi/. After meeting with former secretary of the Iranian National Security Council Saeed Jalili in Tehran in August 2019. Shammari threatened that any Iraqi government that takes a step against Iran would be topped within weeks.“Shia militia group says it will topple any Iraqi gov. hostile to Iran in ‘weeks,’” Kurdistan 24, August 6, 2019, https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/news/bf35833b-2b55-4df3-b6ec-1a4cf5da2d78.

On January 3, 2020, a U.S. airstrike in Iraq killed Kata’ib Hezbollah leader and PMF deputy commander Jamal Jaafar Ibrahimi, a.k.a. Abu Mahdi al-Mohandes, and Qasem Soleimani, commander of the Quds Force of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. On January 7, Iraqi militant groups called for a joint response to the United States. Shammary issued a statement that the PMF will regroup into a single entity to confront Washington, which he accused of heading a “war against the resistance.”Agence France-Presse, “Iraqi armed factions call meeting to begin anti-US fight,” Jordan Times (Amman) January 7, 2020, http://www.jordantimes.com/news/region/iraqi-armed-factions-call-meeting-begin-anti-us-fight. Shammary promised to “wage a war against the American presence in all parts of the region that we can reach,” claiming thousands of U.S. Marines were within range.Agence France-Presse, “Iraqi armed factions call meeting to begin anti-US fight,” Jordan Times (Amman) January 7, 2020, http://www.jordantimes.com/news/region/iraqi-armed-factions-call-meeting-begin-anti-us-fight. On January 13, Shammary attended a meeting in Qom, Iran, between Iraqi militant leaders and Iraqi Shiite leader Muqtada al-Sadr to create what Shammary called a “united resistance” to extricate U.S. and other foreign troops from Iraq.Arwa Ibrahim, “Sadr calls for ‘million-man march’ against US presence in Iraq,” Al Jazeera, January 15, 2020, https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/01/sadr-calls-million-man-march-presence-iraq-200114180201883.html.

Mohammad Pakpour is the internationally designated commander of the Ground Forces of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). He holds the rank of brigadier-general.“Issuance of Executive Order of June 24, 2019, “Imposing Sanctions with Respect to Iran;” Iran-related Designations; Counter Terrorism Designations,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, June 24, 2019, https://www.treasury.gov/resource-center/sanctions/OFAC-Enforcement/Pages/20190624.aspx; “Mohammad Pakpur,” Iran Watch, November 1, 2010, https://www.iranwatch.org/iranian-entities/mohammad-pakpur. Pakpour has led Iranian forces in the Syrian Civil War and claimed Iranian forces will stay in the country as long as the Syrian regime wishes.“Commander Says Iranian Forces Will Stay In Syria As Long As Assad Needs Them,” Radio Farda, May 4, 2017, https://en.radiofarda.com/a/commander-pakpour-says-iranian-forces-will-stay-in-syria-as-long-as-assad-needs-them/28465597.html.

Pakpour fought in the Iranian army during the Iran-Iraq War in the 1980s. IRGC commander Mohammad Ali Jafari promoted Pakpour to commander of the IRGC’s Ground Forces in 2009. Pakpour holds a PhD in political geography from Tehran University.“Part of the new commander of land force records,” asriran, April 29, 2009-May 9, 2009, https://bit.ly/2Gjl00f.

Pakpour has accused the United States of conspiring with Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern countries against Iran. He has also accused the United States and other countries of sponsoring terrorist groups that seek to undermine Iran and the spirit of the revolution.“Enemies Concentrating Plots on Iran: IRGC Commander,” Tasnim News Agency, August 9, 2016, https://www.tasnimnews.com/en/news/2016/08/09/1153397/enemies-concentrating-plots-on-iran-irgc-commander. After Iran shot down an alleged U.S. drone in its airspace in July 2019, Pakpour declared Iran a regional power. He called on Iran to show strength in the face of renewed U.S. sanctions against the country’s nuclear program.“IRGC General: Attacking deep inside enemy line part of IRGC strategy,” International News Agency, July 9, 2019, http://iranpress.com/en/iran-i136464-irgc_general_attacking_deep_inside_enemy_line_part_of_irgc_strategy.

Pakpour has boasted of Iran’s military capabilities and warned the United States against military action. He has labeled Iran an “island of security,”“IRGC Ground Force Equipped with High-Precision Missiles, Drones: Commander,” Tasnim News Agency, November 11, 2019, https://www.tasnimnews.com/en/news/2019/11/11/2138063/irgc-ground-force-equipped-with-high-precision-missiles-drones-commander; “Iran’s War Game Warning Message to Global Arrogance: IRGC Commander,” Tasnim News Agency, February 22, 2017, https://www.tasnimnews.com/en/news/2017/02/22/1336343/iran-s-war-game-warning-message-to-global-arrogance-irgc-commander. while promising a “strong slap in the face” to the United States or any other country that provokes Iran.“Iran: US should be ready for 'strong slap in face,’” Kurdistan 24, February 23, 2017, https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/news/4328560f-41cb-4891-aa35-d172f54c5f5b. Under Pakpour’s command, the IRGC Ground Forces have helped the IRGC’s Quds Force provide training and equipment to the forces of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. According to Pakpour, the Ground Forces are in Syria to assist the Quds Force, the expeditionary wing of the IRGC and its primary link to Iran’s terrorist proxies.“Treasury Targets Senior IRGC Commanders Behind Iran’s Destructive and Destabilizing Activities,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, June 24, 2019, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/sm716. Pakpour boasts that Iranian forces will remain in Syria as long as Assad wants.“Commander Says Iranian Forces Will Stay In Syria As Long As Assad Needs Them,” Radio Farda, May 4, 2017, https://en.radiofarda.com/a/commander-pakpour-says-iranian-forces-will-stay-in-syria-as-long-as-assad-needs-them/28465597.html.

Pakpour accuses the United States of misreading conditions in the Middle East, which has led it to make poor decisions in the Syrian theater. Specifically, he chastised the United States in 2013 after U.S. President Barack Obama called Syrian use of chemical weapons a “red line” but then did not take military action after Assad used them that August.“Commander Sees "Miscalculation" as Reason behind US Retreat from Syria War,” Tasnim News Agency, October 2, 2013, https://www.tasnimnews.com/en/news/2013/10/02/156539/commander-sees-miscalculation-as-reason-behind-us-retreat-from-syria-war.

U.S. President Donald Trump sanctioned Pakpour with other IRGC officials in June 2019 as part of a series of renewed sanctions on Iran.“Issuance of Executive Order of June 24, 2019, “Imposing Sanctions with Respect to Iran;” Iran-related Designations; Counter Terrorism Designations,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, June 24, 2019, https://www.treasury.gov/resource-center/sanctions/OFAC-Enforcement/Pages/20190624.aspx. The United States had previously sanctioned Pakpour for his role in the IRGC and Iran’s nuclear program, but those sanctions were lifted as part of the 2015 nuclear pact between Iran and world powers.“Who Are the 8 Guards Commanders Sanctioned By U.S.,” Radio Farda, June 25, 2019, https://en.radiofarda.com/a/who-are-the-8-guards-commanders-sanctioned-by-u-s-/30019621.html. The European Union, Australia, Japan, and Canada sanctioned Pakpour in 2010.“Mohammad Pakpur,” Iran Watch, November 1, 2010, https://www.iranwatch.org/iranian-entities/mohammad-pakpur. The United States designated the IRGC as a Foreign Terrorist Organization in April 2019.“Statement from the President on the Designation of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a Foreign Terrorist Organization,” White House, April 8, 2019, https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/statement-president-designation-islamic-revolutionary-guard-corps-foreign-terrorist-organization/. Pakpour has condemned U.S. sanctions against the IRGC and Iranian officials as U.S. frustration over the IRGC’s success and U.S. failure in fighting ISIS.Fars News Agency, “Commander: IRGC sanctioned by US for victories against ISIL terrorist group,” Iran Project, October 23, 2017, https://theiranproject.com/blog/2017/10/23/commander-irgc-sanctioned-us-victories-isil-terrorist-group/.

Hasan Dehghan Ebrahimi is a Lebanon-based, internationally designated official in the Quds Force of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). In this role, Ebrahimi has facilitated the flow of millions of dollars to Iranian proxy Hezbollah through Lebanon-based companies.“Treasury Sanctions Supporters of Iran’s Ballistic Missile Program and Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps – Qods Force,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, February 3, 2017, https://www.treasury.gov/press-center/press-releases/Pages/as0004.aspx.

The U.S. government sanction-designated Ebrahimi in February 2017 for acting for or on behalf of the Quds Force. The U.S. Department of the Treasury alleges Ebrahimi maintains direct ties to senior Quds Force officials in Tehran. According to the Treasury, Ebrahimi is the manager of Beirut-based Maher Trading and Construction Company, which he has used to transfer funds, smuggle goods, and launder money for Hezbollah. The U.S. government sanctioned Maher for being owned or controlled by Ebrahimi. The U.S. government also sanctioned two of Ebrahimi’s employees, Muhammad Abd-al-Amir Farhat and Yahya al-Hajj, for acting on his behalf in support of the Quds Force.“Treasury Sanctions Supporters of Iran’s Ballistic Missile Program and Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps – Qods Force,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, February 3, 2017, https://www.treasury.gov/press-center/press-releases/Pages/as0004.aspx.

Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar—the members of the Terrorist Financing and Targeting Center (TFTC) along with the United States—sanctioned Ebrahimi in May 2018. The TFTC also designated Ebrahimi’s Maher Trading.“Treasury and the Terrorist Financing Targeting Center Partner Together to Sanction Hizballah’s Senior Leadership,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, May 16, 2018, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/sm0387.

Amir Ali Hajizadeh is the internationally designated commander of the Aerospace Force of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). He holds the rank of brigadier general. In this role Hajizadeh oversees Iran’s ballistic missile program.“Issuance of Executive Order of June 24, 2019, “Imposing Sanctions with Respect to Iran;” Iran-related Designations; Counter Terrorism Designations,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, June 24, 2019, https://www.treasury.gov/resource-center/sanctions/OFAC-Enforcement/Pages/20190624.aspx; “COUNCIL IMPLEMENTING REGULATION (EU) No 54/2012 of 23 January 2012,” Official Journal of the European Union, January 24, 2012, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=OJ:L:2012:019:0001:0005:EN:PDF. He claims the main purpose of Iran’s missile program is to strike Israel. Hajizadeh is a staunch opponent of the 2015 nuclear agreement between Iran, the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, China, France, and Russia, which he saw as an attempt to weaken Iran. As head of the IRGC’s missile program, he routinely boasts of Iran’s military capabilities and regional dominance while directly threatening to strike U.S. and Israeli positions in the Middle East if those countries provoke the Islamic republic.“Who Are the 8 Guards Commanders Sanctioned By U.S.,” Radio Farda, June 25, 2019, https://en.radiofarda.com/a/who-are-the-8-guards-commanders-sanctioned-by-u-s-/30019621.html; “IRGC General: Iran Has Elaborate Underground Arms Depots,” Tasnim News Agency, October 1, 2019, https://www.tasnimnews.com/en/news/2019/10/01/2108829/irgc-general-iran-has-elaborate-underground-arms-depots; “US Targets in Region Within Reach of Iran Missiles: IRGC General,” Tasnim News Agency, September 15, 2019, https://www.tasnimnews.com/en/news/2019/09/15/2096376/us-targets-in-region-within-reach-of-iran-missiles-irgc-general.

Hajizadeh has warned that the United States’ intentions in Iraq and Syria is to destroy those countries, but Iran has thwarted those plans.“Iranian Revolutionary Guard says it has ‘father of all bombs,’” Times of Israel, September 17, 2017, https://www.timesofisrael.com/iranian-revolutionary-guard-commander-says-it-has-father-of-all-bombs/. Under Hajizadeh’s command, the IRGC Aerospace Force has provided advisory assistance to Iraq’s air force.“Iran’s IRGC Providing Advisory Assistance for Iraq’s Air Force, Commander Says,” Tasnim News Agency, September 20, 2017, https://www.tasnimnews.com/en/news/2017/09/20/1525069/iran-s-irgc-providing-advisory-assistance-for-iraq-s-air-force-commander-says. Hajizadeh publicly boasts of Iran’s military prowess, which he has said has no equal.“Iranian Revolutionary Guard says it has ‘father of all bombs,’” Times of Israel, September 17, 2017, https://www.timesofisrael.com/iranian-revolutionary-guard-commander-says-it-has-father-of-all-bombs/. He has warned that all American bases and ships within 2,000 kilometers of Iran are within the range of Iranian missiles. According to Hajizadeh, Iran is always fully prepared for war.“IRGC General: Iran Has Elaborate Underground Arms Depots,” Tasnim News Agency, October 1, 2019, https://www.tasnimnews.com/en/news/2019/10/01/2108829/irgc-general-iran-has-elaborate-underground-arms-depots; “US Targets in Region Within Reach of Iran Missiles: IRGC General,” Tasnim News Agency, September 15, 2019, https://www.tasnimnews.com/en/news/2019/09/15/2096376/us-targets-in-region-within-reach-of-iran-missiles-irgc-general. Hajizadeh has welcomed a potential Israeli strike against Iran’s nuclear facilities because it would give Iran reason to retaliate and destroy Israel.Michal Shmulovich and Yifa Yaakov, “Revolutionary Guard air force chief ‘welcomes’ Israeli strike, promises ‘swift, decisive’ response,” Times of Israel, August 18, 2012, https://www.timesofisrael.com/syria-is-part-of-us-plan-to-take-over-the-middle-east-says-top-iranian-official/. After Iran conducted missile tests in 2012 against a mock U.S. base, Hajizadeh declared the tests were a message against the “bullying” of Iran.Ron Friedman, Ilan Ben Zion, and Associated Press, “Iran fires dozens of missiles at mock US base in military drill,” Times of Israel, July 3, 2012, https://www.timesofisrael.com/iran-fires-dozens-of-missiles-at-mock-us-base-in-military-drill/. The U.S. government has linked Hajizadeh to Iran bringing down a U.S. drone on June 20, 2019.“Treasury Targets Senior IRGC Commanders Behind Iran’s Destructive and Destabilizing Activities,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, June 24, 2019, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/sm716.

As head of the IRGC’s aerospace division, Hajizadeh also commands the IRGC’s missile development and arsenal. In April 2017, the Trump administration reportedly called for inspections of Iranian military sites in order to monitor the country’s missile program. Hajizadeh has rejected all calls for such oversight. Hajizadeh accused the United States of trying to disarm Iran through various tactics.“No Way for Foreigners to Inspect Iran’s Military Sites: IRGC General,” Tasnim News Agency, August 7, 2017, https://www.tasnimnews.com/en/news/2017/08/07/1485648/no-way-for-foreigners-to-inspect-iran-s-military-sites-irgc-general. In March 2018, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian called on Iran to curb its missile program during a visit to Tehran. Hajizadeh accused France, the United Kingdom, the United States, and “the Zionist regime”—i.e., Israel—of manipulating international law for their own benefit.“Defiant Iran says missile production has tripled,” Times of Israel, March 7, 2018, https://www.timesofisrael.com/defiant-iran-says-missile-production-has-tripled/. Hajizadeh has labeled U.S. criticism of Iran’s missile program as a “pretext” for U.S. animosity against Iran.“Trump: Iran lost respect for US after nuke deal, is now emboldened,” Times of Israel, February 6, 2017, https://www.timesofisrael.com/trump-iran-lost-respect-for-us-after-nuke-deal-now-emboldened/.

On January 3, 2020, a U.S. airstrike in Iraq killed Qasem Soleimani, commander of the IRGC’s Quds Force.Missy Ryan and Dan Lamothe, “Pentagon launched airstrike that killed Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani, Defense Sec. Mark Esper says,” Washington Post, January 2, 2020, https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/national-security/defense-secretary-says-iran-and-its-proxies-may-be-planning-fresh-attacks-on-us-personnel-in-iraq/2020/01/02/53b63f00-2d89-11ea-bcb3-ac6482c4a92f_story.html. On January 8, Iran launched a missile strike on the Ain Al-Asad airbase in Iraq. The IRGC claims the attack killed at least 80 Americans. U.S. officials denied any fatalities but at least 34 American troops were diagnosed with traumatic brain injuries. Also on January 8, Iranian forces shot down a Ukrainian passenger plane, killing all 179 on board. Hajizadeh claimed Iran mistook the plane for a cruise missile. According to Hajizadeh, the IRGC boosted its aerospace defenses in response to U.S. aggression.“IRGC Aerospace Chief: Ukrainian Jetliner Mistaken for Cruise Missile,” Tasnim News Agency, January 11, 2020, https://www.tasnimnews.com/en/news/2020/01/11/2179623/irgc-aerospace-chief-ukrainian-jetliner-mistaken-for-cruise-missile; “34 US troops had brain injuries from Iran’s strike, Pentagon says,” CNBC, January 24, 2020, https://www.cnbc.com/2020/01/24/34-us-troops-had-brain-injuries-from-irans-strike-pentagon-says.html. Hajizadeh warned that the January 8 attack on Ain Al-Asad was just the beginning of Iran’s response to Soleimani’s death. Hajizadeh called the revenge operation “Martyr Soleimani.”“Iran’s Missile Attack on US Base Beginning of Major Operation: Commander,” Tasnim News Agency, January 9, 2020, https://www.tasnimnews.com/en/news/2020/01/09/2178632/iran-s-missile-attack-on-us-base-beginning-of-major-operation-commander.

Ali Reza Tangsiri is the U.S.-designated commander of the naval forces of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). He has held the position since 2018 and has since openly threatened U.S. and other international ships in the Persian Gulf.“Who Are the 8 Guards Commanders Sanctioned By U.S.,” Radio Farda, June 25, 2019, https://en.radiofarda.com/a/who-are-the-8-guards-commanders-sanctioned-by-u-s-/30019621.html; “Leader appoints new Revolutionary Guards' Navy cmdr.,” Mehr News Agency, August 23, 2018, https://en.mehrnews.com/news/137031/Leader-appoints-new-Revolutionary-Guards-Navy-cmdr. He holds the rank of rear admiral.“RGC Navy Monitors All Foreign Vessels in Persian Gulf, Commander Says,” Tasnim News Agency, December 15, 2019, https://www.tasnimnews.com/en/news/2019/12/15/2160777/irgc-navy-monitors-all-foreign-vessels-in-persian-gulf-commander-says.

Tangsiri is vocally anti-American, which has reportedly endeared him to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Khamenei appointed Tangisiri commander of the IRGC’s naval forces on August 23, 2018. Khamenei charged Tangsiri with boosting the navy’s combat readiness in coordination with other sectors of the IRGC. Tangsiri replaced Rear Admiral Ali Fadavi, who was appointed the IRGC’s deputy commander.“Who Are the 8 Guards Commanders Sanctioned By U.S.,” Radio Farda, June 25, 2019, https://en.radiofarda.com/a/who-are-the-8-guards-commanders-sanctioned-by-u-s-/30019621.html; “Leader appoints new Revolutionary Guards' Navy cmdr.,” Mehr News Agency, August 23, 2018, https://en.mehrnews.com/news/137031/Leader-appoints-new-Revolutionary-Guards-Navy-cmdr.

Under Tangsiri’s command, the IRGC Navy has harassed and threatened international ships traveling in the Persian Gulf.“IRGC Navy Monitors All Foreign Vessels in Persian Gulf, Commander Says,” Tasnim News Agency, December 15, 2019, https://www.tasnimnews.com/en/news/2019/12/15/2160777/irgc-navy-monitors-all-foreign-vessels-in-persian-gulf-commander-says. The U.S. government accuses Tangsiri of sitting “atop a structure” responsible for the sabotage of vessels in international waters.“Treasury Targets Senior IRGC Commanders Behind Iran’s Destructive and Destabilizing Activities,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, June 24, 2019, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/sm716. Tangsiri has openly threatened U.S. and British ships in the Persian Gulf.“IRGC Navy Commander Gen. Alireza Tangsiri: Israeli Presence in Persian Gulf Could Ignite a War; We Can Seize Any Ship, Even If It Is Part of a U.S.-British Military Convoy,” MEMRI, August 12, 2019, https://www.memri.org/tv/irgc-navy-commander-general-tangsiri-israeli-presence-persian-gulf-ignite-war-seize-military-ships-threat/transcript. He has claimed to know multiple people who would undertake suicide attacks against U.S. ships in the gulf. Tangsiri has reportedly been involved in kidnappings of U.S., Canadian, and Australian personnel in the Persian Gulf.“Who Are the 8 Guards Commanders Sanctioned By U.S.,” Radio Farda, June 25, 2019, https://en.radiofarda.com/a/who-are-the-8-guards-commanders-sanctioned-by-u-s-/30019621.html.

Khamenei has threatened U.S. ships traveling in the Persian Gulf, which he has claimed belongs to Iran and its neighbors.“Commander: IRGC Standing Firm against Foreigners in Persian Gulf,” Tasnim News Agency, February 23, 2019, https://www.tasnimnews.com/en/news/2019/02/23/1953602/commander-irgc-standing-firm-against-foreigners-in-persian-gulf. According to Tangsiri, the navy routinely monitors ships and questions them about their nationality, origin, and destination. Echoing Khamenei, Tangsiri has asserted all foreign vessels in the gulf, including those belonging to the United States, must answer to the IRGC because the gulf belongs to Iran and other neighboring nations.“IRGC Navy Monitors All Foreign Vessels in Persian Gulf, Commander Says,” Tasnim News Agency, December 15, 2019, https://www.tasnimnews.com/en/news/2019/12/15/2160777/irgc-navy-monitors-all-foreign-vessels-in-persian-gulf-commander-says. Tangsiri has repeatedly warned that Iran would close the strategic Strait of Hormuz passage in the Persian Gulf if U.S. sanctions target Iran’s oil industry. In April 2019, he declared that Iran’s military power is increasing despite U.S. sanctions and again threatened to close the waterway.“Iran may close Hormuz Strait if not able to use it: IRGC navy commander,” Press TV, April 22, 2019, https://www.presstv.com/Detail/2019/04/22/594063/IRGC-Tangsiri-Al-Alam-Strait-Hormuz.

The United States initially designated Tangsiri as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist under Executive Order 13224 for acting for or on behalf of the IRGC on June 24, 2019.“Issuance of Executive Order of June 24, 2019, ‘Imposing Sanctions with Respect to Iran;’ Iran-related Designations; Counter Terrorism Designations,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, June 24, 2019, https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/financial-sanctions/recent-actions/20190624. On February 3, 2023, the U.S. Department of the Treasury levied secondary sanctions on Tangsiri for his role on the board of directors of the U.S.-sanctioned Paravar Pars Company, an Iranian developer of unmanned aerial vehicles. Along with Tangsiri, the United States sanctioned six other Paravar Pars board members for acting or purporting to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Paravar Pars. The United States and European Union had both previously sanctioned Paravar Pars for manufacturing Shahed-series unmanned aerial vehicles for the IRGC Aerospace Force.“Treasury Sanctions Board of Directors of Iranian UAV Manufacturer,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, February 3, 2023, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy1246.

Akram al-Kaabi is the U.S.-designated secretary-general of Harakat Hezbollah al-Nujaba (“Movement of the Party of God’s Virtuous”), an offshoot of Iran-backed Iraqi militia Asaib Ahl al-Haq (AAH).Bill Roggio, “Iraqi Shiite militia commander threatens to attack US,” Long War Journal, June 9, 2015, https://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2015/06/iraqi-shiite-militia-commander-threatens-to-attack-us.php. Harakat Hezbollah al-Nujaba (HHN) is closely tied to Iran and Hezbollah. Under Kaabi’s leadership, HHN has been at the forefront of the fight against ISIS alongside the Syrian army, Hezbollah, and other Iran-backed Iraqi militias.“Top Iraqi Militia Leader: Fighting for Iran under Soleimani's leadership Is “Blessing from God”,” Middle East Institute, April 5, 2017, http://www.mei.edu/publications/top-iraqi-militia-leader-fighting-iran-under-soleimanis-leadership-blessing-god; Aymenn Jawad Al-Tamimi, “Hashd Brigade Numbers Index,” Aymenn Jawad Al-Tamimi's Blog, October 31, 2017, http://www.aymennjawad.org/2017/10/hashd-brigade-numbers-index.

HHN is part of Iraq’s Haashid Shaabi, the umbrella group of anti-ISIS Shiite militias also called Iraq’s Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF). The PMF coordinate anti-ISIS military ventures between the Syrian army and Iranian-sponsored militias.“Top Iraqi Militia Leader: Fighting for Iran under Soleimani's leadership Is “Blessing from God”,” Middle East Institute, April 5, 2017, http://www.mei.edu/publications/top-iraqi-militia-leader-fighting-iran-under-soleimanis-leadership-blessing-god; Aymenn Jawad Al-Tamimi, “Hashd Brigade Numbers Index,” Aymenn Jawad Al-Tamimi's Blog, October 31, 2017, http://www.aymennjawad.org/2017/10/hashd-brigade-numbers-index.

After the 2003 U.S. invasion of Iraq, Kaabi served as a commander in Muqtada al-Sadr’s Jaysh al-Mahdi (“the Mahdi Army,” a.k.a. JAM Special Groups). As a leader in the Mahdi Army, Kaabi planned and led attacks against the Iraqi government and members of Coalition forces, according to the U.S. government. Iran ordered Hezbollah in 2005 to create a group to train Iraqis to fight Coalition Forces. Under orders from Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah, a covert Hezbollah unit trained members of JAM who then formed AAH.“Treasury Designates Hizballah Commander Responsible for American Deaths in Iraq,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, November 19, 2012, https://www.treasury.gov/press-center/press-releases/Pages/tg1775.aspx.

The United States accuses Kaabi of providing financing and weaponry for JAM’s violent activities. In April 2008, for example, Kaabi paid a JAM leader 50 million Iraqi dinars (approximately $41,684) for carrying out three separate improvised explosive device (IED) attacks against Coalition Forces in Baghdad. Under Kaabi’s command, JAM claimed responsibility for rocket and mortar attacks against Coalition and Iraqi forces.“Treasury Designates Individuals and Entities Fueling Violence in Iraq,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, September 16, 2008, https://www.treasury.gov/press-center/press-releases/Pages/hp1141.aspx.

Kaabi claimed that after the U.S. withdrawal from Iraq in 2011, he turned AAH over to its current leader, Qais al-Kazali, in order to devote himself to Islamic studies in seminary. Kaabi formed Nujaba in 2013 after ISIS began to capture large swaths of Syria and Iraq. Kaabi has denied ideological divisions with AAH resulted in HHN’s creation. He told Al-Monitor in 2015 that the groups merely “disagree on style and how the work should be managed.”Ali Hashem, “Iraq’s Shiite forces claim victory over IS,” Al-Monitor, March 16, 2015, https://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2015/03/iraq-shiite-hezbollah-nujaba-victory-islamic-state.html.

Kaabi is openly hostile to the United States. While the PMF and the United States share an enemy in ISIS, Kaabi has been adamant that the United States remains an enemy. According to Kaabi, the United States and ISIS are “two faces of the same coin.”Bill Roggio and Caleb Weiss, “Iraqi Shiite militia leader says he would overthrow government if ordered by Iran’s supreme leader,” Long War Journal, November 12, 2015, https://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2015/11/us-designated-terrorist-of-iraqi-militia-reportedly-in-aleppo.php. Kaabi called U.S. President Donald Trump’s December 2017 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital “legitimate justification” to target U.S. troops in Iraq.“SHEIKH AKRAM AL-KAABI: TRUMP'S DECISION REGARDING JERUSALEM IS A LEGITIMATE JUSTIFICATION FOR TARGETING AMERICAN IN IRAQ,” Harakat Hezbollah al-Nujaba, December 8, 2017, https://bit.ly/2u0Rb1u. Kaabi has claimed various incarnations of HHN have carried out more than 6,000 attacks on U.S. positions in Iraq since 2004.Ali Hashem, “Iraq’s Shiite forces claim victory over IS,” Al-Monitor, March 16, 2015, https://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2015/03/iraq-shiite-hezbollah-nujaba-victory-islamic-state.html.

Kaabi is deeply loyal to the Iranian regime and Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. All of HHN’s logistical support and military training come from Iran, according to Kaabi. Both Kaabi and his followers adhere to the Khomeinist doctrine of Velayat-e Faqih, or Guardianship of the Jurist, which places religious oversight over all aspects of the government.Ali Hashem, “Iraq’s Shiite forces claim victory over IS,” Al-Monitor, March 16, 2015, https://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2015/03/iraq-shiite-hezbollah-nujaba-victory-islamic-state.html; Babak Dehghanpisheh, “The Iraqi militia helping Iran carve a road to Damascus,” Reuters, September 22, 2017, https://www.reuters.com/investigates/special-report/mideast-crisis-iraq-nujaba/. Kaabi has declared that he would follow any order from Khamenei, including overthrowing the Iraqi government.“State Department Terrorist Designation of Harakat al-Nujaba (HAN) and Akram ‘Abbas al-Kabi,” U.S. Department of State, March 5, 2019, https://www.state.gov/state-department-terrorist-designation-of-harakat-al-nujaba-han-and-akram-abbas-al-kabi/. According to Iraqi officials, HHN is helping Tehran build a supply line from Iran to Damascus through Iraq.Babak Dehghanpisheh, “The Iraqi militia helping Iran carve a road to Damascus,” Reuters, September 22, 2017, https://www.reuters.com/investigates/special-report/mideast-crisis-iraq-nujaba/. As of 2017, Iran reportedly paid HHN fighters $1,500 a month.Babak Dehghanpisheh, “The Iraqi militia helping Iran carve a road to Damascus,” Reuters, September 22, 2017, https://www.reuters.com/investigates/special-report/mideast-crisis-iraq-nujaba/. According to the State Department, HHN is “funded by but not under the control of the Iraqi government.”“State Department Terrorist Designation of Harakat al-Nujaba (HAN) and Akram ‘Abbas al-Kabi,” U.S. Department of State, March 5, 2019, https://www.state.gov/state-department-terrorist-designation-of-harakat-al-nujaba-han-and-akram-abbas-al-kabi/.

HHN has featured images on its website of Kaabi holding hands with Hezbollah‘s Nasrallah. Hezbollah aided the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps-Quds Force (IRGC-QF), a special branch of the IRGC tasked with achieving sensitive missions beyond Iran’s borders, in creating these Iran-backed militias in Iraq.“Part 2: Pro-Iran Militias in Iraq,” Wilson Center, April 27, 2018, https://www.wilsoncenter.org/article/part-2-pro-iran-militias-iraq; Bill Roggio, “Iraqi Shiite militia commander threatens to attack US,” Long War Journal, June 9, 2015, https://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2015/06/iraqi-shiite-militia-commander-threatens-to-attack-us.php. In August 2017, Kaabi sent a letter to Nasrallah declaring HHN’s “complete solidarity and support with your loud cry against the oppressive Zionist regime.”Babak Dehghanpisheh, “The Iraqi militia helping Iran carve a road to Damascus,” Reuters, September 22, 2017, https://www.reuters.com/investigates/special-report/mideast-crisis-iraq-nujaba/. In March 2017, HHN formed the Golan Brigade to capture the Golan Heights from Israel, which took control of the territory of the 1967 Six Day War.Babak Dehghanpisheh, “The Iraqi militia helping Iran carve a road to Damascus,” Reuters, September 22, 2017, https://www.reuters.com/investigates/special-report/mideast-crisis-iraq-nujaba/.

Kaabi has also praised deceased Quds Force commander Qasem Soleimani. Kaabi told Iranian reporters in 2016 that the Iraqis “need him and his colleagues.”“Voluntary Forces Can Retake Mosul Single-Handedly: Iraqi Figure,” Tasnim News Agency, August 28, 2016, https://www.tasnimnews.com/en/news/2016/08/28/1170391/voluntary-forces-can-retake-mosul-single-handedly-iraqi-figure. HHN released a song in 2014 praising Soleimani for confronting both the Americans and ISIS. HHN also posted photos on its website of Kaabi and Soleimani together on what the group claimed to be the Syrian frontline.Babak Dehghanpisheh, “The Iraqi militia helping Iran carve a road to Damascus,” Reuters, September 22, 2017, https://www.reuters.com/investigates/special-report/mideast-crisis-iraq-nujaba/.

After Soleimani’s death in a U.S. airstrike in Iraq on January 3, 2020, Kaabi joined other militant leaders in promising revenge. Kaabi announced that Iran-backed Shiite militias in Iraq were unified and ready to “execute a harsh, deliberate response to the American terrorist forces.”Agence France-Presse, “Iraq’s pro-Iran factions ramp up threats to US after Iran missile strikes,” Times of Israel, January 8, 2020, https://www.timesofisrael.com/iraqs-pro-iran-factions-ramp-up-threats-to-us-after-iran-missiles/.

Kaabi continued to call for the expulsion of U.S. forces in Iraq. In one statement on April 14, 2023, Kaabi stated his group would consider U.S. forces in Iraq to be “legitimate targets” if they do not leave.“Leader Of Pro-Iran Iraqi Militia Akram Al-Kaabi: U.S. Ambassador On Iraq Carries Out Blatant Acts Of Sabotage; U.S. Forces Remain Legitimate Target And Will Be Expelled From The Region,” Middle East Media Research Institute, April 16, 2023, https://www.memri.org/tv/leader-pro-iran-iraq-militia-akram-al-kaabi-reject-american-presence-legitimate-target-martyrdom. Upon the start of the Hamas-Israel war in the Gaza Strip in October 2023, an umbrella group called the Islamic Resistance in Iraq (IRI) emerged. The grouping quickly launched dozens of attacks on U.S. forces and military bases across Iraq and Syria in retaliation for the U.S.’s stance on the Gaza crisis. The IRI is reportedly a coalition of all Iran-backed Shiite militias operating in Iraq. Among the groups included are HHN, Kataib Hezbollah (KH), AAH, and Kataib Sayyid al Shuhada (KSS), as well as lesser-known militias, such as Tashkil al-Waritheen.Hamdi Malik and Michael Knights, “Profile: The Islamic Resistance in Iraq,” Washington Institute for Near East Policy, October 21, 2023, https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/policy-analysis/profile-islamic-resistance-iraq. HHN is considered one of the strongest factions of the IRI, and by January 2024 the militant coalition had carried out more than 100 attacks.Raya Jalabi and Felicia Schwartz, “US air strike kills commander of Iran-backed militia in Baghdad,” Financial Times, January 4, 2024, https://www.ft.com/content/6c70205d-e2b0-4f1a-bb19-835f7aa2b268.

Abdul Reza Shahlai is an internationally sanctioned commander in Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) who leads the Quds Force in Yemen and coordinates Iran-backed Houthi rebels there. The United States also accuses Shahlai of coordinating the failed 2011 plot to assassinate Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to the United States and a 2007 attack on U.S. troops in Iraq. Shahlai survived a U.S. assassination attempt in Yemen in early January 2020.Michael R. Gordon and Warren P. Strobel, “U.S. Targeted but Missed Senior Iranian Commander in Yemen, Officials Say,” Wall Street Journal, January 10, 2020, https://www.wsj.com/articles/u-s-targeted-but-missed-senior-iranian-commander-in-yemen-officials-say-11578680949; “Treasury Sanctions Five Individuals Tied to Iranian Plot to Assassinate the Saudi Arabian Ambassador to the United States,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, October 11, 2011, https://www.treasury.gov/press-center/press-releases/pages/tg1320.aspx.

The Quds Force is the expeditionary arm of the IRGC responsible for liaising with Iran’s terrorist proxies around the world. Shahlai has provided training and financing to the Iran-backed Houthi rebels fighting against a Saudi Arabia-led coalition in Yemen.Michael R. Gordon and Warren P. Strobel, “U.S. Targeted but Missed Senior Iranian Commander in Yemen, Officials Say,” Wall Street Journal, January 10, 2020, https://www.wsj.com/articles/u-s-targeted-but-missed-senior-iranian-commander-in-yemen-officials-say-11578680949. Previously, he provided weaponry to Iran-backed militants in Iraq. The U.S. government suspects Shahlai of responsibility for a January 20, 2007, attack in Karbala, Iraq, in which unidentified militants wearing U.S.-style military uniforms and carrying forged American identification cards and American-style M-4 rifles infiltrated a secure compound and killed five U.S. soldiers.James Glanz and Mark Mazzetti, “Iran May Have Trained Attackers That Killed 5 American Soldiers, U.S. and Iraqis Say,” New York Times, January 31, 2007, https://www.nytimes.com/2007/01/31/world/middleeast/31karbala.html; John Hudson, Missy Ryan, and Josh Dawsey, “On the day U.S. forces killed Soleimani, they launched another secret operation targeting a senior Iranian official in Yemen,” Washington Post, January 10, 2020, https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/national-security/on-the-day-us-forces-killed-soleimani-they-launched-another-secret-operation-targeting-a-senior-iranian-official-in-yemen/2020/01/10/60f86dbc-3245-11ea-898f-eb846b7e9feb_story.html.

The U.S. government also holds Shahlai responsible for a failed 2011 Quds Force operation to assassinate Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to the United States, Adel Al-Jubeir, in Washington, D.C. According to the U.S. government, Shahlai conspired with his cousin, Mansour Arbabsiar, to assassinate Jubeir. Shahlai allegedly approved $5 million in payments for Arbabsiar to use to recruit others to the plot.“Treasury Sanctions Five Individuals Tied to Iranian Plot to Assassinate the Saudi Arabian Ambassador to the United States,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, October 11, 2011, https://www.treasury.gov/press-center/press-releases/pages/tg1320.aspx. Arbabsiar unknowingly wired money to undercover FBI agents and was arrested at New York’s John F. Kennedy Airport on September 29, 2011. He pleaded guilty to participation in the failed plot and admitted he had been recruited and funded by members of the Quds Force. Arbabsiar told U.S. investigators that he acted at the behest of his cousin, a “big general” in the Iranian military.“Man Pleads Guilty In Manhattan Federal Court To Conspiring With Iranian Military Officials To Assassinate Saudi Arabian Ambassador To The United States,” U.S. Department of Justice, October 17, 2012, https://web.archive.org/web/20140408225049/http://www.justice.gov/usao/nys/pressreleases/October12/arbabsiar.php.

In December 2019, the U.S. government offered a $15 million reward for information on Shahlai and the disruption of IRGC plans.“Act of Terror – Information on… Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps,” Rewards for Justice, accessed January 10, 2020, https://rewardsforjustice.net/english/irgc.html. U.S. forces attempted to kill Shahlai in Yemen on January 2, 2020. A U.S. airstrike killed Quds Force commander Qasem Soleimani in Iraq early on January 3. U.S. officials told the Washington Post that the United States had intended to kill both commanders and announce their deaths at the same time. The State Department did not comment on why the operation to kill Shahlai failed.Michael R. Gordon and Warren P. Strobel, “U.S. Targeted but Missed Senior Iranian Commander in Yemen, Officials Say,” Wall Street Journal, January 10, 2020, https://www.wsj.com/articles/u-s-targeted-but-missed-senior-iranian-commander-in-yemen-officials-say-11578680949.

The January 2020 U.S. strike in Yemen killed Quds Force member Mohammad Mirza’i, according to Iranian media. Shahlai reportedly went into hiding after the failed assassination attempt.Alex Emmons, “U.S. Strike on Iranian Commander in Yemen the Night of Suleimani’s Assassination Killed the Wrong Man,” Intercept, January 10, 2020, https://theintercept.com/2020/01/10/us-strike-abdul-reza-shahlai-yemen/.