The Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an umbrella name used by Iran-aligned factions, also denied responsibility and suggested that Yemen’s Houthis were involved. It brought armed factions into the state, placed them on public payrolls, and gave them legal standing. Armed factions also possess parties, parliamentary allies, and access to ministries. It cannot settle who controls force inside Iraq. Striking sites described in Iraq as official security headquarters also strengthens the ambiguity that has protected autonomous factions for years.