Washington's long-term strategy to unshackle Iraq from Iranian influence is yielding results. Having pulled a potent mix of financial and military levers, the militias have been eerily quiet of late.
Armed groups have proliferated in the Iraqi security vacuum, in some cases supported by Iran. After three US soldiers were killed, the Americans have hit back. How will the militias react now?
Since 7 October, Iran has been moving its affiliated forces around Syria, an area that could become a second active front in war with Israel. Al Majalla lists the groups and their key characteristics.
Regional states have come to the realisation that fighting 'axis' members individually will have little effect, and any tactical success will likely be short-lived