Report: U.S. Gives Israel Green Light to Strike in Iraq

The Iraqi news site "Iram News" reported Monday evening that the United States has given Israel a "green light" to strike inside Iraq, if necessary. Until now, the U.S. had prevented the Israeli Air Force in particular, and the IDF more broadly, from carrying out operational actions in Iraq, in part because of the American presence in the Arab country. As a reminder, last week the U.S. withdrew its last remaining forces from Iraq.

According to the report, Israel will now have freedom of action in the air and may carry out strikes against militias and armed organizations affiliated with Iran. However, such strikes would only be carried out if those militias actually attack Israel or if reliable intelligence is received about an imminent attack.

The report also noted that the U.S. military is preparing to strengthen its defense systems in the region to protect its forces. The United States intends to build a regional defense network in anticipation of possible retaliatory actions and broader escalation following an Israeli strike.