Shiite Leader Admits Iraq’s Inability to Defeat U.S. Militarily

By Dler Mohammed

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – In a striking statement, Aqeel Fatlawi, head of the State of Law Coalition in Iraq’s Parliament, asserted that the defeat of American forces in the country is unattainable unless the prophesized emergence of Imam Mahdi takes place. His remarks, made during an interview with Al-Rasheed TV, underscore the ongoing anti-U.S. sentiment among Iraq’s Shiite political factions closely aligned with Iran.

Fatlawi emphasized that while resistance and opposition to U.S. military presence continue, he believes there is no practical solution to expelling American forces aside from divine intervention. “If we call for their expulsion, how and when do we do it? Resistance alone cannot achieve this, nor can we do it ourselves. Our belief is clear: without the emergence of Imam Mahdi, there is no alternative to removing these oppressive American forces,” he stated.

The Shiite leader also reflected on Iraq’s shifting perception of the United States. Initially seen as a liberator following the 2003 invasion, Washington, he argued, later became a source of corruption and destruction for Iraq. “At first, for a brief period, we saw America as a savior. But then, they spread corruption and devastated our country. Who exactly are we resisting? Can we logically claim to be resisting a superpower like the United States, with its advanced technology and global dominance?” Fatlawi questioned.

His comments mark a significant rhetorical shift within Iraqi Shiite politics. While Shiite militias and political leaders have historically advocated for armed resistance against U.S. forces, this is one of the first instances where a high-ranking figure has openly admitted Iraq’s inability to militarily confront the United States.

Despite ongoing calls for U.S. withdrawal, the practical challenges of confronting American military strength have seemingly led some Iraqi leaders to temper their stance. “Even if we seek their expulsion, how do we stand against them? Resistance alone cannot prevail. The only true solution is the arrival of Imam Mahdi,” Fatlawi reiterated, signaling a move away from past claims of military capability against U.S. troops.

The State of Law Coalition, closely affiliated with Iran, has consistently been one of the most vocal factions advocating for the removal of American forces from Iraq. Backed by Tehran, Shiite factions through their affiliated armed militias have previously launched armed attacks on U.S. military bases and diplomatic missions in Iraq, arguing that they are defending Iraqi sovereignty. However, Fatlawi’s latest remarks reveal a more subdued acknowledgment of the imbalance of power between Iraq and the U.S.

Observers see his statement as a rare moment of realism in Iraq’s political discourse. While resistance factions have long portrayed the U.S. as an occupier that can be forced out through military pressure, Fatlawi’s comments suggest a growing recognition that such aspirations remain unrealistic without external or divine intervention.

As tensions between U.S. forces and Iran-backed militias persist in Iraq, Fatlawi’s remarks could signal a shift in strategy among some Shiite factions, moving away from direct confrontation and towards a more rhetorical, ideological opposition to the American presence.

Imam Mahdi is a central figure in Islamic eschatology, particularly in Shia Islam. He is believed to be the prophesied redeemer who will appear in the end times to establish justice and eradicate tyranny. 

According to Twelver Shia beliefs, Imam Mahdi is the twelfth and final Imam, Muhammad al-Mahdi, who went into occultation in the 9th century and will reappear when the world is in turmoil. 

Many Shia political and religious leaders reference him in their rhetoric, especially when discussing resistance against perceived oppression.