Iraq’s Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) reported that 15 fighters were killed in a US airstrike in the country’s western region.
The PMF said the strike targeted its headquarters while a meeting was underway. Senior commanders were present at the time of the attack.
Among the dead was Commander Saad al-Baiji. Funeral ceremonies for him are being held in Baghdad.
The PMF is a coalition of armed groups. Most of these groups are Iran-backed militias. The coalition has now been integrated into Iraq’s official security forces.
The attack highlights ongoing tensions in western Iraq. Analysts say US airstrikes continue to target armed groups linked to Iran.
The strike is likely to increase concerns over security in the region. PMF leaders have vowed to respond to attacks against their forces.
The incident comes amid heightened military activity in Iraq’s western provinces. Observers say these areas remain hotspots for clashes between US forces and militia groups.
The PMF called on local authorities to strengthen security measures. It urged vigilance to prevent further casualties among its personnel.
Earlier, Attacks have struck energy-related facilities in Iran’s cities of Isfahan and Khorramshahr, according to a report by the Fars news agency.
The agency said the strikes took place during the day on Monday, but further details on the extent of the damage were not immediately available.
It remains unclear whether the attacks occurred before or after US President Donald Trump announced an extension of his ultimatum to Iran and instructed the Department of War not to target energy infrastructure.
If the strikes happened after that directive, it could raise questions over whether the US adhered to its stated position, potentially complicating efforts by mediators seeking to ease tensions between the two sides.
Iranian officials have earlier dismissed Trump’s claims of ongoing negotiations, saying they are not engaged in any proposals, whether direct or indirect.
