Iran-Backed Iraqi Group Prepares for Potential Long Conflict Amid US-Iran Tensions

An Iran-backed Iraqi armed group, Kataeb Hezbollah, has instructed its fighters to prepare for a prolonged conflict if the United States launches strikes against Iran. The group warned of "immense losses" for the US and indicated a higher likelihood of intervention compared to previous regional conflicts. While Lebanon's Hezbollah stated it would avoid military involvement in limited strikes, it considers attacks on Iran's supreme leader a "red line." US military deployments near Iran accompany rising tensions amid stalled nuclear negotiations.