Treasury sanctions Iran-backed militias in Iraq as part of pressure campaign

The Treasury Department is sanctioning some of Iraq’s “most violent” Iran-backed militia groups as part of its broader effort to rein in Tehran.

The sanctions target at least five militias, including Kata’ib Hizballah and Asa’ib Ahl Al-Haqq.

The U.S. government alleges they have attacked U.S. personnel and innocent civilians in Iraq, siphoned Iraq’s wealth to finance terrorism and undermined Iraq’s sovereignty and democratic processes.

“We will not allow Iraq’s terrorist militias, backed by Iran, to threaten American lives or interests,” Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said. “Those who enable these militias’ violence will be held accountable.”

The Treasury Department listed several militia leaders who, with Iran’s backing, attacked U.S. and coalition forces who fought the Islamic State or were stationed in Iraq.

One of the militias was linked to the recent kidnapping of American journalist Shelly Kittleson in Iraq. She was taken from a Baghdad street on March 31 and freed on April 7.

The sanctions are designed to block the property interests and assets of the militias that are either in the U.S. or controlled by persons with ties to the U.S. Violations of the sanctions can result in criminal and civil penalties.

Treasury officials announced the sanctions as part of President Trump’s pressure campaign on Iran.

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The president, who ordered a military operation with Israel against Iran on Feb. 28, wants Tehran to stop pursuing a nuclear weapon.

Mr. Trump said a new round of peace talks could occur over the weekend in Pakistan.

Iranian officials said they were reopening the Strait of Hormuz on Friday, one day after Israel and Lebanon agreed to a 10-day ceasefire. The move was seen as a critical step toward reaching a peace deal and reducing economic shocks from the war.

• Tom Howell Jr. can be reached at thowell@washingtontimes.com.