Pro-Iranian Iraqi Militias Suspend Fighter Salaries Amid Iranian Financial Crisis
Pro-Iranian militias in Iraq have suspended salaries for most fighters over two months, redirecting funds to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps amid severe economic pressure and US sanctions.
Pro-Iranian militias in Iraq have suspended salary payments for the majority of their fighters over the past two months, according to media reports citing local sources. The financial squeeze stems from severe economic pressures facing Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps amid ongoing US sanctions and maritime blockades.
According to sources associated with groups such as Kataib Hezbollah, Harakat al-Nujaba, and Kataib Sayyid al-Shuhada, leaders have withheld wages from fighters not officially registered under Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces umbrella organization. Meanwhile, minority elements officially registered with the state-backed body continue to receive regular compensation.
The affected factions are formally designated as terrorist organizations by the United States. Militia commanders have reportedly assured operatives that the salary suspensions are temporary measures until funds are reallocated for the Iranian military establishment.
In October, CENTCOM officials highlighted the unprecedented financial strain facing regional proxies. US military leadership noted that Tehran has demanded financial cutbacks and fund returns from allied groups across the Middle East to support core operations.
