The Iran-aligned Iraqi militia Kataeb Hezbollah has confirmed the death of one of its senior commanders following a military strike in southern Iraq. The group said the attack took place near one of its main bases in the southern part of the country, an area that has recently seen rising military activity linked to the wider regional conflict.
Ahmad al-Hamidawi, the secretary-general of Kataeb Hezbollah, released a statement mourning the loss of what he described as a “great commander.” He identified the deceased as Ali Hussein al-Freiji, noting that the commander had been a member of the armed faction for more than two decades. His statement reflected the group’s deep sense of loss over the death of one of its long-serving members.
Sources within the militia said the strike targeted a vehicle close to the group’s main base in southern Iraq. Two fighters were initially reported killed in the attack, with the death toll later rising to three after the commander’s death was confirmed. One source described the incident as a “Zionist-US strike,” blaming foreign powers for the attack.
The Jurf al-Nasr base, one of Kataeb Hezbollah’s key strongholds, was reportedly among the first targets of airstrikes blamed on Israel and the United States. Since the broader conflict began, similar strikes have spread to other parts of Iraq. Military sources say at least 15 fighters, mostly linked to Kataeb Hezbollah, have been killed in recent operations.
Iraq has been trying to maintain stability despite being caught in regional tensions between global powers. The country has repeatedly stated that it does not want to be dragged into the ongoing war. However, attacks involving both foreign and local armed groups have still taken place within its borders.
Iran-backed armed factions operating under the Islamic Resistance in Iraq umbrella have continued to claim responsibility for regular drone attacks on United States military bases in the country. On Thursday, the group also warned European nations against joining the conflict, threatening their forces and military facilities in Iraq and nearby regions.
Earlier, Iraqi security forces said they had seized two rockets and a launchpad in the southern Basra province. Authorities said the weapons were prepared for use against a neighbouring country, raising further concerns about the security situation as the regional conflict continues.
