Reactions to the killing of Kataib Hezbollah leader in latest U.S. strike

BAGHDAD — The death of prominent Kataib Hezbollah figure Wisam Muhammad Saber, also known as Abu Baqir Al-Saadi, in an American airstrike in Baghdad on Wednesday has elicited strong reactions from various Iraqi factions. The incident marks a significant escalation in tensions, with calls for unity and retaliation against what is perceived as an ongoing violation of Iraqi sovereignty by U.S. forces.

Kataib Hezbollah Mourns Loss, Calls for Jihad
The Secretary-General of Kataib Hezbollah, Abu Hussein Al-Hamidawi, announced Al-Saadi’s death, expressing condolences and urging for continued resistance. “We congratulate the Islamic nation and our Iraqi people on the elevation of the great leader, Al-Hajj Wisam Muhammad Saber (Abu Baqir Al-Saadi), to the gardens of bliss,” Al-Hamidawi stated. He further called for “steadfastness on the path of jihad,” invoking “divine support” against so-called non-believers.

Al-Nujaba Movement Highlights Sovereignty Violation
The Al-Nujaba Movement criticized the airstrike as a blatant disregard for Iraqi sovereignty and an assault on an official figure of the Iraqi state. “Today, in the heart of the Iraqi capital, Baghdad, treacherous American aircraft violate our sovereignty unchecked,” the movement’s statement read. It warned that such acts could extend to anyone opposing the occupying forces, emphasizing that a decisive official stance from the Iraqi government was crucial for preventing further violations.

Qais Al-Khazali Advocates for Immediate Action
Qais Al-Khazali, Secretary-General of Asa’ib Ahl al-Haq, pointed to repeated U.S. attacks on Iraqi sovereignty and lives, saying, “The ongoing American attacks on Iraqi lives and the violation of our country’s sovereignty are clear evidence of American contempt and disregard for Iraqi government and Iraqi people.” Al-Khazali called for Iraq to take practical measures to enhance its defense capabilities, and formally request the Security Council vote on the immediate withdrawal of foreign forces.

From Bahrain: Saraya Al-Ashtr and Saraya Waad Allah Commend Al-Saadi’s “Martyrdom”
A joint statement from Saraya Al-Ashtr and Saraya Waad Allah (Islamic Resistance in Bahrain) praised Al-Saadi for his dedication and sacrifices in the face of what it called American occupation and extremism. “With hearts filled with faith, patience, and steadfastness on the path of resistance… We congratulate our brothers in the Islamic resistance, Kataib Hezbollah, on the elevation of the martyr, the hero, Wisam Muhammad Al-Saadi (Abu Baqir),” the statement said. It further reaffirmed their commitment to continue the struggle against domination by foreign powers.

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