Pakistan, June 17 -- As tensions between Israel and Iran rise sharply, Iraq finds itself caught in the middle-struggling to avoid being pulled into a conflict it did not start. Iranian drones and missiles crossing Iraqi airspace, while Israeli jets operate in the same skies, have heightened fears of spillover into Iraqi territory.

Iraq, maintaining ties with both Iran and the United States, is now under increasing pressure. Political analysts warn of a serious risk of escalation, especially with Iran-backed Iraqi factions voicing anger over recent developments. Many of these groups are calling for the removal of U.S. troops, further complicating Iraq's balancing act.

Though Iraqi security officials say pro-Iran groups are cooperating wi...