The Trump administration has reportedly intensified financial and diplomatic pressure on Iraq to dismantle Iran-backed militias that have targeted U.S. personnel and facilities.
U.S. officials warn that Baghdad must take action against groups operating through the Popular Mobilization Force structure, which are accused of providing political, financial, and operational cover for attacks on American interests.
A key measure includes a reported freeze on nearly $500 million in U.S. dollar shipments to Iraq, linked to oil sales proceeds held at Federal Reserve Bank of New York accounts. This action follows the administration’s earlier blocking of similar transactions since the escalation of tensions with Iran.
The Treasury Department has also established a reward of up to $10 million for information leading to the arrest or capture of Haydar Muzhir Ma’lak al-Sa’idi, known as Haydar al-Gharawi. Al-Gharawi serves as secretary general of Harakat Ansar Allah al-Awfiya, an Iran-aligned armed group designated as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist by the U.S.
U.S. authorities have accused HAAA of launching attacks on diplomatic facilities in Iraq, military bases and personnel across multiple countries—including Jordan and Syria—and of killing American service members.
The group operates under the umbrella of the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an Iran-aligned coalition that has been linked to numerous strikes against U.S. targets during the current U.S.-Israel conflict with Iran.
The U.S. Embassy in Baghdad confirmed recent attacks by HAAA, including an ambush on U.S. diplomats near Baghdad International Airport on April 8.
This pressure campaign underscores Washington’s growing concern over Iraq’s ability to contain Iranian proxy forces within its security structure. With the administration signaling that failure to act could damage bilateral relations and weaken Iranian influence in the region, Baghdad faces a critical juncture in balancing U.S. partnership with domestic threats.