Iraq dismisses reports of assassination plots using drones, says Najaf is stable

Iraqi security officials have rejected claims of unusual military deployments in the central Euphrates region, in the context of heightened tensions following a mass mobilisation call by influential Shia cleric Moqtada al-Sadr.

On Sunday, the Joint Operations Command released a statement asserting that social media reports regarding the deployment of military units or special operations in the central Euphrates were inaccurate.

"There are no military movements or security duties in these areas," the statement clarified. The only activity involved two Counter-Terrorism Service companies rotating and conducting scheduled training outside urban areas. The command urged social media users to verify information with official sources.

Claims circulated on Iraqi social media suggesting that the alleged military operation aimed to prevent a plot by the Islamic State members to assassinate Al-Sadr using suicide drones in Najaf city.

These official denials coincided with Sadr's call for a mass Friday prayer in Babylon province, which he characterised as a demonstration of unity intended to "terrify the enemies" and defend religious values.

Meanwhile, police in Najaf refuted reports of a security operation involving the alleged seizure of drones and other contraband. Najaf’s police command affirmed that no such raid had occurred and stated that the province remained secure, with routine patrols and operations supported by the Imam Ali Brigade continuing as usual.

Separately, a leaked document from Saraya al-Salam, Sadr's armed wing, alleged the existence of a network smuggling arms and supplies to Islamic State militants. According to the document, members of certain Najaf tribes were using livestock trading, agricultural berms, and other methods to conceal the movement of weapons and narcotics between Najaf, Diwaniya, and Anbar province. The document identified several potential security gaps along the route but did not provide supporting evidence.

Despite boycotting the recent elections, Muqtada al-Sadr remains one of Iraq's most influential political figures. His movement won 73 seats in the 2021 parliamentary elections but was unable to form a majority government, even after aligning with Sunni leader Mohammed al-Halbusi and Kurdish leader Masoud Barzani's blocs. 

Following deadly clashes in Baghdad between Sadr's supporters and Iran-backed militias—violence that left tens of people dead—Sadr announced his withdrawal from politics, though analysts say he retains immense influence because he can rapidly mobilise large numbers of followers.

Kurdish political analyst Mohammed Hawrami recently told The New Arab that Sadr's influence to rally the people to the streets ensures that all parties consider his position, noting that Jaafar al-Sadr, Iraq's ambassador to the United Kingdom, is viewed as a potential consensus candidate.

The Middle Euphrates region holds historical and geographical significance in central and southern Iraq, situated along the central course of the Euphrates River. This area contains fertile plains, is renowned for its ancient civilisations, and has played a pivotal role in Iraq's historical development.

The Middle Euphrates region comprises five key governorates: Babil, Karbala, Najaf, Al-Qadisiya (also known as Diwaniyah), and Al-Muthanna (also known as Samawah).

The situation remains tense following the mobilisation call, with officials urging calm and advising the public to avoid disseminating unverified information.