On Dec. 6, the U.S. Treasury sanctioned leader Qais al-Khazali, his brother Laith al-Khazali, a commander in the group, and Husain Falih Aziz al-Lami, who allegedly commanded the unit of snipers. “Today’s demonstration is clear in its aim and message: It is to reject foreign intervention in Iraq's internal decisions," said Naim al-Aboudi, a lawmaker. “In addition to that, it is to reject the decision of the United States of America regarding popular leaders and on top of them is sheikh Qais al-Khazali. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo blamed Iranian proxy groups in Iraq for instigating a spate of rocket attacks targeting military bases with U.S. personnel. In a Dec. 13 statement, he warned that Washington would take “decisive" action in future attacks on American interests in the country.

Source: International New York Times December 14, 2019 17:48 UTC