New Iraqi chief embraces Iran-backed PMU despite US efforts
Iraq's Popular Mobilization Units is establishing its position and influence in the government of new Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi.
![IRAQ-FAIR/ RTS25CSF.jpg](/sites/default/files/styles/article_hero_medium/public/almpics/2018/11/RTS25CSF.jpg/RTS25CSF.jpg?h=a5ae579a&itok=_yuDJO1D)
Iraq's Popular Mobilization Units, aiming to cement a presence in the country's government and security institutions, has persuaded incumbent Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi to ensure salaries for its fighters.
The PMU is a coalition of mostly Shiite armed groups in Iraq, many of them close to Iran, that fought the Islamic State alongside Iraqi forces.