‌🔻The Popular Mobilization Forces in Iraq formed in 2014, amid the collapse of security, which came after the Islamic State (ISIS) gained control of the city of Mosul and vast areas of the country.

This mobilization took place after Ayatollah Ali Sistani, a Shia marja’ (source of emulation), issued a fatwa that became known as “jihad kafā’ī,” in which he asked the people of Iraq to volunteer and join the security forces to confront ISIS.

In addition to new volunteers, this mobilization also included armed groups, some of which had existed before 2014. The Iraqi government moved to organize the volunteers and groups within a framework that was called the “Popular Mobilization Forces.”

The Popular Mobilization Forces’ command played a leading role alongside Iraqi forces in battles against ISIS and later became an official military institution within Iraq’s armed forces. Continue from:

📸Getty/ Reuters/ AFP via Getty/ NurPhoto via Getty