Hashd al-Shaabi evacuates bases in western Iraq amid Iran-US tensions

BAGHDAD, Iraq — The Popular Mobilization Forces (Hashd al-Shaabi) have evacuated their bases in Iraq's western Anbar province in response to rising military tensions between Iran and the United States, a local security source said. Personnel numbers at the headquarters have been reduced, with only a limited number of local staff remaining on duty under a rotating work system. The remaining personnel are tasked with securing the facilities and carrying out essential duties. The move is intended to reduce the risk of the bases being targeted amid the broader escalation between Tehran and Washington. According to the source, Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps launched attacks on US-linked targets in recent hours. Iran said it targeted the Al-Munhadh base in the United Arab Emirates, as well as King Hussein and Azraq air bases in Jordan. The Iranian strikes were carried out in retaliation for a US strike on Larak Island in the Strait of Hormuz, according to the same account.