US charges suspect linked to Iran-backed Kataib Hezbollah
The US Justice Department said it has arrested and charged an Iraqi national described as a senior commander of the Iran-backed armed group Kataib Hezbollah. The move highlights the legal front Washington is pursuing against Iran-aligned armed groups in Iraq during a period of sustained tensions with Tehran.
The US Justice Department announced it had arrested an Iraqi national whom it described as a senior commander of Kataib Hezbollah, with multiple charges set out in the indictment. The charges are linked to a series of attacks targeting US military personnel in Iraq and Syria.
Kataib Hezbollah is an armed group operating in Iraq that the United States and several other countries describe as closely aligned with the Quds Force of Iran's Revolutionary Guard. Washington said in recent months that the group's threats against US bases had continued during the period of heightened tension with Tehran.
The Justice Department said the case was part of an effort to deter threats to regional stability. The Iraqi government has yet to issue an official response; with US-Baghdad security consultations ongoing, attention will focus on how different domestic political factions interpret the arrest. Further details on the indictment and a hearing schedule are expected in the coming days.
More from Africa
Mahmoud Khalil asks court to halt deportation, citing new evidence
Lawyers for Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University student, presented new evidence in court to halt his deportation. They argue that the Trump administration engineered the outcome of the case against him, reigniting the wider debate over US immigration enforcement.
Mali junta leader names himself defence minister after predecessor killed
Mali's military junta leader has assumed the role of defence minister after his predecessor, Sadio Camara, was killed in a major offensive by combined jihadist and separatist forces.
Gaza aid convoy resumes journey from Libya after long delay
A Global Sumud Flotilla aid convoy that has been stalled in Zliten, western Libya, for weeks is preparing to resume its journey to Gaza. Organisers say it will move via sea and land toward the Egyptian border crossing.