The UK-registered human rights organisation Dakok has issued a strong warning regarding the accelerating political, economic, and military influence of Hashd al-Shaabi (Popular Mobilization Forces – PMF) across Iraq. This concern has intensified following recent developments under Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani’s administration, which appear to strengthen PMF-aligned entities at the expense of Iraq’s democratic institutions and civil oversight.

A Dangerous Expansion of Control Over Iraq’s Telecommunications

One of the most alarming developments is the attempt by al-Sudani’s government to push through an exclusive national 5G contract for a consortium directly affiliated with the PMF.
Although a high court judge has temporarily blocked the contract on national security grounds, experts warn that this suspension may not hold indefinitely.

Dakok has highlighted that if approved, this deal would grant PMF-aligned groups unprecedented control over the flow of digital data in and out of Iraq. Such access would give armed militias the technological capacity to:

• Monitor communications of activists and civil society organisations
• Track the movement of journalists and dissidents
• Collect sensitive data on political opponents
• Extend surveillance beyond Iraq’s borders, affecting members of the diaspora

This development poses a direct threat to the freedom, safety, and privacy of Iraqi citizens—particularly those who work to expose corruption and authoritarianism.

Entrenched Corruption and Economic Capture

The PMF’s growing political leverage has coincided with what analysts and international observers describe as systemic and unprecedented levels of corruption. Reports show that billions of dollars in public money have been diverted into the pockets of PMF-aligned business networks and militia leaders.

One of the most shocking examples is the so-called “heist of the century”, involving the theft of $2.5 billion in tax revenues—a scandal widely linked to networks protected by or associated with powerful PMF factions.

This embedded corruption undermines:

• Iraq’s judicial independence
• The integrity of state institutions
• Public trust in governance
• Efforts to build a functioning democratic system

Moreover, U.S. Treasury sanctions—including those targeting the Muhandis General Company—underscore the international community’s concerns about the PMF’s financial empire.

A Threat to Activists, Civil Society, and Democracy

We concerned that the unchecked expansion of these militias risks turning Iraq into a de facto state controlled by armed groups, rather than a civilian-led democracy.

The consequences are clear:

• Civil society is shrinking under intimidation
• Journalists face relentless threats and surveillance
• Anti-corruption activists risk imprisonment or extrajudicial retaliation
• Political reform becomes increasingly impossible

The future of a democratic, accountable Iraq is at risk.

Collective Action by Dakok Members

In response to these urgent developments, all active members and trustees of Dakok have formally submitted this concern to their local Members of Parliament (MPs) across the United Kingdom.
Each member has relayed identical security concerns, highlighted the political risks, and called for immediate UK parliamentary attention.

The individuals who participated in this coordinated submission include:

This unified effort demonstrates the seriousness with which Dakok views the PMF’s expanding influence and the potential dangers it poses to Iraq’s democratic future and human rights landscape.

Appeal to UK Decision-Makers

Dakok and its members respectfully urge UK officials to:

1. Raise this issue in Parliament and with the FCDO

Particularly regarding potential risks to national, regional, and digital security.

2. Coordinate diplomatically with U.S. and EU partners

To monitor and limit PMF control over key sectors, including telecommunications and public finances.

3. Support independent journalists and civil society organisations

Who continue to expose corruption and militia activity despite targeted threats.

4. Press for accountability

For all U.S.-sanctioned PMF-linked companies, including the Muhandis General Company and its affiliates.

A formal acknowledgement and a written response have been requested by the authors, including Rastgo Mohamed Saed, representing Dakok Organization.

Sources

(As referenced in the original letter)

• The Atlantic: https://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2025/10/iran-iraq-deal/684707/
• AOL News: https://www.aol.com/articles/iraq-dangerous-deal-iran-122742358.html
• U.S. Department of the Treasury: Press release on sanctions