[56936] Iraq: 'Al-Hashd al-Shaabi' launches 'Imposing Sovereignty' operation in the Najaf and Karbala desert

Large-scale military operation in central Iraq

This morning, May 12, 2026, several Iraqi media outlets, including Al-Sabah Iraqi Newspaper, Wahed Al-Iraq, and Iraqi News Agency (INA), reported on the commencement of a joint military operation under the title "فرض السيادة" (Imposing Sovereignty). The operation focuses on the desert of Najaf and Karbala, with the aim of tightening security control in these areas.

According to Nabatieh, the commander of the "Middle Euphrates" operations for the Al-Hashd al-Shaabi militia, Ali al-Hamdani, noted that the operation is being carried out under the guidance of the supreme political echelon and with the support of the Chief of General Staff of the Army, Abd al-Amir Yarallah. The operation is being conducted along four main axes, with the goal of "securing the road connecting Karbala to the al-Nukhayb area."

In another report, Sajjad al-Asadi, a senior official in the Al-Hashd al-Shaabi operations wing, added that the forces have begun moving from the "Al-Fajj" checkpoint into the depths of the desert. According to him, the forces are conducting a "security sweep extending over 120 kilometers," incorporating demolition units, intelligence, and support units, with the goal of reaching the Arar border crossing.

Al-Mayadeen Network, which is affiliated with the Resistance Axis, emphasized that the operation is intended to clear the desert areas and establish absolute sovereignty in border regions, while conducting search and reconnaissance activities to a depth of up to 70 kilometers. The reporting sources highlight that the operation is characterized by "tight" military planning and a high level of professionalism.