US State Department Offers $10 Million Reward for Information on Iraqi Militia Leader

Baghdad. Intensifying the search for a leader of an active armed group in Iraq, the US State Department has announced a reward of up to $10 million for credible information leading to the individual.

The move aims to gather intelligence on Hashim Finyan Rahim al-Saraji, leader of the Tehran-backed group Kata'ib Sayyid al-Shuhada (KSS). Al-Saraji is also known as Abu Ala al-Walai.

In a social media post released on Thursday, the US State Department stated that individuals providing information regarding al-Saraji's activities, location, or identity could be eligible for relocation and a reward.

According to Washington, the group under his leadership is accused of attacking Iraqi citizens, as well as targeting US diplomatic facilities, military bases, and personnel in Iraq and Syria.

The group is reportedly part of the Iraqi political structure, specifically linked to the ruling Shia coalition, which holds a parliamentary majority. This highlights the political complexity and the influence of armed groups in Iraq.

Although Iraq has achieved some stability in recent years following long-standing conflicts, regional tensions appear to be fueling renewed instability. Middle Eastern tensions, particularly following the attacks on Iran by the United States and Israel on February 28, are said to have impacted Iraq as well.

Previously, the US State Department had announced a similar reward for a leader of the powerful Iraqi armed group Kata'ib Hezbollah. That leader was linked to the kidnapping and week-long detention of American journalist Shelly Kittleson, who was later released.

Meanwhile, according to US media reports, Washington has increased pressure on Tehran-backed groups by deciding to halt cash shipments to Iraq and cut funding for security programs. Analysts suggest this move has created further diplomatic tension between Baghdad and Washington.