Abstract
Given the strength of nationalist sentiment across all Iraqi sects and the broad-based recognition of Sistani as a force for national unity, it will be difficult for Shia PMU groups to form a quasi-state in parallel to the Iraqi government once Isis is dislodged. In the eventuality of such a political outgrowth, the PMUs are bound to lose Sistani’s backing, and with it their legitimacy in the eyes of millions of Iraqi Shias who currently support them.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Specialist publication | The Guardian/Tehran Bureau |
| Publication status | Published - 2015 May 18 |
Subject classification (UKÄ)
- Political Science
Free keywords
- Iraq
- Iran
- Shia Paramilitary Forces
- Popular Mobilization Units (PMU)
- Islamic State
- IS
- Ayatollah Sistani
- Iraqi Nationalism
- Sunni Arabs
- State Within a State
- Deep State
- Parallel State
- Hezbollah
- Badr Organization
- Asaib Ahl al-Haq
- Unity
- Sectarianism
- Militia
- Leader
- Civilization
- Rouhani
- Haidar al-Abadi