While protests have been taking place in various Shiite areas in Iraq, the Popular Mobilization Units (PMU) have been avoiding confrontation with the demonstrators to prevent clashes and the loss of PMU social bases.
At the same time, the PMU has been working to improve relations with the United States to receive guarantees that their locations will not face further blows. In an attempt to end tensions and avoid clashes between the PMU and US forces in Iraq, PMU leaders are trying to reassure the United States that its interests in Iraq are intact. The visit of PMU head Faleh al-Fayadh to Washington in early October was a clear indication of the above.
On Oct. 20, Rahman al-Jubouri, a senior researcher at the Regional Center of The American University of Iraq, Sulaimani, said at a press conference, “Fayadh spoke to the Americans about the new structure of the PMU and told them it is part of the Iraqi state and will be close to the decision-making circles. This message aimed at reassuring the US that its diplomatic mission and interests will not be jeopardized.”
The timing of Fayadh’s visit was critical for the PMU, as its militias appeared weak due to the blows they were dealt, especially in the battles against the Islamic State. Fayadh was trying to maintain the power and influence of the PMU.
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