A group of young Iraqis has initiated a movement named “Iraq Only” with the aim of improving relations with the U.S. and eradicating the influence of Iranian militias in Iraq.
The initiative involved distributing stickers featuring the Iraqi flag and placing them on images of militia leaders in Iraq. This grassroots campaign was launched by young individuals to strengthen the rule of law and establish a democratic, citizen-centered government in Iraq that is not under Iranian control.
Fox News Digital had an exclusive conversation with Muqtada al-Tamimi, one of the leading activists behind this recent endeavor, discussing his involvement in social activism, the aspirations for Iraq’s future, and his abduction due to his efforts in exposing Iranian interference.
A photo of Iranian leaders is held up by a member of the Islamic Movement of Iraq, a faction of the Popular Mobilisation Forces during a rally in Baghdad on April 5, 2024. (Murtaja Lateef/AFP via Getty Images)
“The American presence in Iraq does not at all contradict a strong Iraq but the opposite. A good relationship with the United States means a strong Iraq.”
Al-Tamimi said he understands and appreciates the heavy price paid by American forces in upholding the stability and security of Iraq since the invasion of 2003.
One aspect of their platform that may raise eyebrows is their recognition of Israel’s place in the Middle East and their desire for closer ties with Israel.
“Israel is a great country and has a great culture. We share with them a lot of the geography and as we are looking at and seeking a strong Iraq, we need to seek a strong partnership with a country like Israel if needed.”
Al-Tamimi also notes that everyday Iraqis have suffered and paid a high price because of the alliance between Iraq and Iran. Physical infrastructure was destroyed, and Iranian interference undermined state institutions. Eradicating Iranian influence will help Iraq, in their view, ultimately become safer and more prosperous.
“We think once we have a strong relationship with Israel and the United States, we will have a strong Iraq.”
Al-Tamimi also sees positive signs for Iraq and the Middle East after the fall of longtime dictator Bashar al-Assad in Syria.
“We believe the removal of the Assad regime is a very good step for undermining Iranian influence in the region and gives us as Iraqis hope for better change in the region.”
