Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces reshuffle Samarra command, reinstate Akaili

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) has reversed an earlier leadership change at the Samarra Operations Command, returning Ali al-Akaili to the post and canceling the appointment of Yusuf Mezban, according to information obtained by Iraqi outlets. Mezban, who had been placed in charge of the command, has been returned to his former position leading the 36th Brigade. The PMF body said the decision was issued at the direct instruction of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani. It stated that the reshuffle is intended to preserve security stability in the area and prevent renewed tension. Akaili has also been tasked with severing the Saraya al-Salam brigades' ties to the National Shiite Movement and overseeing their restructuring. PMF chairman Faleh al-Fayadh had previously named Akaili as an advisor at the General Directorate of Operations, with responsibility for supervising the reorganization of brigades 313, 314 and 315 in the Samarra operations. Hours after the PMF announcement, Sudani formally restored Akaili to his role as Samarra operations commander, the same reports said.