Newly emerged armed groups in Iraq are reporting directly to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), bypassing the country’s established militia networks, according to Iraqi and regional security sources cited by Reuters.

The sources said the groups have been involved in a series of drone attacks targeting Gulf countries, including Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, raising concerns about regional security and the growing influence of Tehran-backed factions operating outside traditional command structures.

Iraq’s newly appointed Prime Minister, Mohammed Shia al-Zaidi, condemned the attacks and pledged to launch a joint investigation with the affected Gulf states. The Iraqi government said it remains committed to preventing Iraqi territory from being used to threaten neighboring countries and to maintaining constructive relations across the region.

According to Reuters, the emergence of these groups reflects a shift in the structure of Iran-aligned armed organizations in Iraq, with some factions reportedly operating independently of the well-established militia networks that have long played a prominent role in the country’s security and political landscape.

Iran, meanwhile, defended its support for what it describes as “resistance groups” across the Middle East, stating that such support is not open to negotiation. Tehran has repeatedly denied direct involvement in attacks carried out by allied organizations, while emphasizing its backing for movements opposing Western and Israeli influence in the region.