US Warns Iraq of Imminent Israeli Action Against Hezbollah, Urges Neutrality

US Delivers Stern Warning to Iraqi Leadership Amid Rising Regional Tensions

The United States has reportedly issued a stark warning to Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani regarding an imminent Israeli military operation targeting Hezbollah in Lebanon. During a surprise visit to Baghdad on Sunday, November 30, 2025, US Special Envoy for Syria, Tom Barrack, conveyed a message emphasizing the need for Iraq to remain neutral in any escalating regional conflict.

The meeting, which lasted over 70 minutes, saw Barrack caution Baghdad that Israel could respond 'harshly' against Iraq if pro-Iranian factions within the country were to intervene in support of Hezbollah. An Iraqi government advisor, speaking to Qatari media, described Barrack's message as urging Al-Sudani to 'control the factions and halt any practices that could support Hezbollah in Lebanon, whether financially or militarily, while also emphasizing the need for Iraq to remain neutral in any regional escalation or alignment.' Sources indicated that Barrack underscored, 'Neutrality isn't a request. It's the condition.'

Details of the Imminent Israeli Operation and US Demands

According to reports from Saudi outlet Al-Hadath and other media, Barrack informed Iraqi officials that the anticipated Israeli operation in Lebanon is expected to continue 'until the terrorist organization is disarmed.' The US envoy made it clear that any interference by Iran-aligned Iraqi militias would trigger direct Israeli strikes inside Iraq.

Barrack's core demands to Prime Minister al-Sudani reportedly included:

• Restraining the pro-Iranian militias currently operating in Iraq.
• Halting all economic and military support flowing from Iraq to Hezbollah.
• Ensuring Iraq remains outside of any possible regional escalation, requiring immediate steps to prevent militia involvement.

Heightened Regional Tensions and Hezbollah's Activities

This urgent diplomatic intervention comes amidst significantly heightened tensions in the Middle East. Israel has been signaling its intent to take decisive action against Hezbollah, citing the group's alleged rearmament despite a ceasefire that took effect over a year ago. Recent weeks have seen an escalation, including Israel's targeted killing of Hezbollah's 'chief of staff,' Haytham Ali Tabatabai, in a strike in Beirut on November 23.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has warned that Hezbollah is rapidly rebuilding its military capabilities, leading to ongoing Israeli strikes against Hezbollah targets in Lebanon. The US concern is to prevent a broader regional conflict, particularly one that could draw Iraq into direct confrontation with Israel.

Iraq's Delicate Position and Unanswered Questions

The warning places Iraq's government in a precarious position, balancing its strategic partnership with Washington against the influence of Iran-aligned groups within its own coalition. While some Iraqi armed factions have previously expressed readiness to support Hezbollah in a conflict with Israel, Iraqi authorities have not yet publicly commented on the specifics of the discussions with Barrack. The Iraqi Prime Minister's office released a statement indicating that the meeting reviewed 'mutual perspectives on preventing any further escalation in the region' by 'supporting the diplomatic track to resolve disputes.' However, the specific steps Baghdad will take in response to the US recommendations remain unclear.