Iran’s Revolutionary Guard set up Iraqi cells to attack Gulf neighbors, sources say

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has reportedly established covert units within Iraq to conduct targeted strikes against Gulf nations hosting U.S. military forces, according to multiple Iraqi sources. These units, described as small but highly specialized, have allegedly carried out several drone attacks on targets in Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates over a period spanning late April to mid-May. The operations are believed to have taken place from remote areas near the southern Iraqi cities of Basra and Samawa. According to the sources, these cells consist of approximately 10 elite Shi'ite fighters each, drawn primarily from the Islamic Resistance in Iraq—a coalition of hardline factions with extensive combat experience. However, unlike other groups within the resistance network, these newly formed units operate independently of the broader coalition and instead report directly to the IRGC leadership.

The emergence of these units marks a strategic shift in how Iran seeks to exert influence in the Middle East. With traditional proxy groups weakened due to prolonged conflicts, particularly with Israel, and facing resource constraints after the recent U.S.-Israel war, Iran appears to be adopting a more discreet approach. This strategy involves creating smaller, more tightly controlled units that can execute precision strikes without drawing attention or triggering large-scale retaliation. The IRGC, designated as a terrorist organization by the United States, has historically relied on a vast network of allied militias across the region. However, the current situation suggests a recalibration of tactics to ensure continued pressure on adversaries while avoiding overexposure.

These developments come amid growing tensions between Iran and the United States, compounded by the ongoing presence of U.S. military personnel in the Gulf. The IRGC’s actions reflect a broader effort to challenge U.S. interests in the region, even as diplomatic efforts continue to unfold. Recent reports indicate that the U.S. and Iranian governments have reached an interim agreement aimed at ending the conflict, though critical issues such as Iran’s nuclear ambitions remain unresolved. Despite these diplomatic moves, Iran has made it clear that its support for militant groups opposed to Israel will not be part of any negotiated settlement.

Within Iraq, the political landscape is also shifting. Several influential Shi'ite factions, including Asaib Ahl al-Haq and the Imam Ali Brigades, have signaled their intent to disarm and transition toward civilian roles. This move follows persistent U.S. pressure on the Iraqi government to eliminate armed groups operating within its territory. While some factions have begun the process of handing over weapons to state authorities, others may still be aligned with the IRGC, suggesting a complex interplay of loyalty and self-preservation among various actors in the region.

The implications of these developments extend beyond immediate military concerns. They highlight the intricate web of alliances and rivalries that define the Middle East, where national interests often intersect with sectarian dynamics. The involvement of the IRGC in setting up these covert units underscores the depth of Iran’s commitment to maintaining its strategic footprint despite external pressures. Meanwhile, the Iraqi government faces mounting challenges in balancing internal stability with international obligations, particularly regarding the management of armed groups within its borders.

Looking ahead, the situation remains fluid. The effectiveness of the IRGC’s new units will likely depend on their operational capacity and the response from both regional and global powers. Continued diplomatic engagement between the U.S. and Iran could potentially lead to de-escalation, although the persistence of certain militant activities indicates that achieving lasting peace remains elusive. For now, the covert operations initiated by the IRGC represent a calculated attempt to assert influence in a rapidly evolving geopolitical environment.