Khazali rose to prominence during the post-2003 U.S. occupation of Iraq, when his militia was implicated in sectarian violence, kidnappings, and attacks on government installations. Arrested by U.S. forces in 2007 for involvement in a deadly assault in Karbala, he spent approximately three years in detention. His group has long operated as an Iran-backed paramilitary force, and in 2020, the United States designated him a “Specially Designated Global Terrorist” due to his role in proxy violence and human rights abuses.

Despite his controversial past, Khazali is positioning himself as a mainstream political figure. Analysts note that his strategy focuses on transforming Asa'ib Ahl al Haq’s military influence into a political force capable of gaining parliamentary seats and shaping government formation. Observers say this rebranding effort could consolidate Iran-aligned power within Iraq’s legislature, though it also carries significant risks if voters reject his candidacy or remain wary of militia involvement in politics.

Domestically, Iraqi citizens remain deeply skeptical of both politicians and armed groups. Years of political corruption, violent politics, and external influence have left the electorate cautious. While Khazali’s political wing secured five parliamentary seats in 2021, expectations for a major electoral breakthrough are low. His history of admitted military activity and ongoing allegations of violence continue to challenge his credibility as a political leader.

Regionally, Khazali’s transformation is closely watched by Iran, which benefits from his transition into formal politics as a means of extending influence in Iraq. Conversely, the United States and other stakeholders view the move as a potential threat to Iraq’s sovereignty and stability, reflecting broader concerns about armed groups embedding themselves in political institutions while maintaining military capabilities.

The outcome of Khazali’s campaign will likely signal whether militia-based actors in the Middle East can successfully legitimate themselves through elections. Key indicators to watch include the number of parliamentary seats his bloc wins, whether his platform emphasizes governance and social development rather than coercion, and how rival Iraqi factions respond to his political rise.

As Iraq navigates this complex election season, Khazali’s efforts illustrate the delicate interplay between force, politics, and foreign influence in the country. His success or failure could reshape Iraq’s political landscape and serve as a blueprint or warning for similar groups across the region attempting to translate battlefield power into institutional authority.