BAGHDAD (Dispatches) -- The deputy commander of the popular Hashd al-Sha’abi forces has said that the group will not hesitate to highlight Iran’s role and support for the militias, which are now part of Iraq’s armed forces.
Addressing a festival in Najaf, Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis said there were "certain people trying to steal recognition” for the victory against Daesh as he praised Iran’s role in supporting the fight against the Takfiri terrorists.
"I will not shy away from mentioning the support of the Islamic Republic of Iran in terms of weapons, advising, and planning,” Muhandis stated.
"It was Iran which organized the plan to regain control and secure the Samara road (from Daesh extremists), including providing us with drones and air cover with Sukhoi fighter jets,” he said.
The Hashd al-Sha’abi deputy commander noted that the U.S.-led coalition had not provided Iraq with any weapons, "therefore, the Hashd al-Sha’abi will not hesitate to mention Iranian support during the war against terror”.
"Where was the coalition when Ramadi had fallen, and when Fallujah was liberated?” Muhandis told the crowd.
"Hashd al-Sha’abi still fights terror while Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are now pledging thousands of dollars for the purpose of destructing Iraq,” he said, referring to the Persia Gulf states’ recent pledges for Iraq’s reconstruction.
Washington has voiced its concern about Iran’s role in Iraq. U.S. Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis on Thursday charged that Iran was using financial means "to sway candidates to sway votes” in the upcoming Iraqi elections.