This relentless focus, often conflating specific incidents with the entire institution

This relentless focus, often conflating specific incidents with the entire institution, aims to erode the PMF's hard-earned legitimacy as a force that fought ISIS and represents Iraqi sovereignty against foreign occupation. The goal is to "de-sanctify" the Hashd – to turn popular respect into suspicion and hatred. Connecting the Dots: A Coordinated Attack

These events are not isolated. They fit the historical US/Israeli modus operandi:

* Rapid Blame Assignment:

The US Embassy's immediate tweet mirrors how false narratives (Nayirah, WMDs) were launched before facts emerged.

* Exploiting Tragedy:

Just as the Argov assassination was exploited to invade Lebanon, isolated violent incidents in Iraq are leveraged to tarnish the entire resistance axis.

* Psychological Warfare:

Leaking the kidnapped lawyer's private photos mirrors the dehumanizing tactics used to build hatred, similar to how resistance figures are routinely demonized.

** * Undermining Sovereignty:

By fueling internal conflict between Iraqi state forces (like the police) and the PMF, and promoting the narrative of "uncontrollable militias," the US seeks to paralyze the Iraqi government and create justification for its own continued military and intelligence presence. Makki himself noted the state is "too weak to confront these factions," highlighting the desired paralysis.

* Targeting Legitimacy:

The core objective is to break the perception of the PMF, and especially factions like Kata'ib Hezbollah and Badr, as legitimate national resistance forces defending Iraq from occupation. Labeling them as mere "factions" or criminal elements serves this purpose.

Conclusion: Resisting the Narrative War The recent events in Baghdad are a stark reminder that the battle for Iraq's future is not only fought on the ground but also in the realm of perception. The US, failing to achieve its goals through direct military might, has resorted to its old playbook: false flags, manufactured crises, media manipulation, and the dehumanization of its opponents. The targeting of the PMF, and specifically factions like Kata'ib Hezbollah and Badr, is a calculated effort to destroy their legitimacy as symbols of resistance to foreign occupation.