Iraq Uncovered: Investigating Shia Militias’ Alleged Abuse of Sunni Civilians (full doc) | FRONTLINE

A detailed look at the militias in Iraq, their impact on the local population, and the broader implications for the region.

Summary

  • Frontline investigates Shia militias in Iraq, their role in fighting against ISIS, and allegations of sectarian violence.
  • Undercover correspondent Rita Nai reports on the ground, revealing the fears of the local population and the power dynamics involving militias.
  • The documentary uncovers stories of Sunni persecution, disappearances, and the influence of Iran on Shia militias.
  • Through interviews and on-the-ground footage, the documentary highlights the complexities of post-ISIS Iraq and the potential for future conflict.
  • The investigation reveals the government's incapacity to control militia actions and the risk of a new insurgency.

Chapter 1

Introduction to the Frontline Report

0:05 - 54 sec

The Frontline report begins with an introduction to the undercover investigation in Iraq.

The Frontline report begins with an introduction to the undercover investigation in Iraq.

  • Correspondent Rita Nai goes undercover in Iraq to investigate Shia militias and the murder of two Iraqi journalists.
  • The report sets out to uncover the role of militias in fighting ISIS and the resulting fears among the local population.

Chapter 2

Journey Through Northern Iraq

1:19 - 2 min, 22 sec

The correspondent travels through the war-affected areas of Northern Iraq.

The correspondent travels through the war-affected areas of Northern Iraq.

  • Rita Nai travels through Northern Iraq, witnessing the destruction caused by ISIS and the ongoing battles.
  • The militia's role in the fight against ISIS is explored, with insights into their operations and impact on local communities.

Chapter 3

Refugees and Militia Screening

3:42 - 2 min, 55 sec

The segment covers the militia's interactions with refugees fleeing ISIS territories.

The segment covers the militia's interactions with refugees fleeing ISIS territories.

  • Refugees escaping ISIS-held territories are met by militias for screening, which includes separating men from families.
  • The potential for Sunni refugees being mistaken for ISIS sympathizers by the Shia militia is discussed.

Chapter 4

Investigations into Militia Actions

6:37 - 4 min, 6 sec

The report delves into the investigations surrounding the actions of militias against Sunnis.

The report delves into the investigations surrounding the actions of militias against Sunnis.

  • Allegations against militias for mistreating Sunni civilians are explored through interviews with politicians and victims.
  • The disappearance of hundreds of Sunni men and the lack of government action or findings are highlighted.

Chapter 5

Sectarian Tensions in Diala Province

10:42 - 6 min, 7 sec

The correspondent goes undercover in Diala Province to investigate sectarian violence.

The correspondent goes undercover in Diala Province to investigate sectarian violence.

  • Undercover reporting reveals destruction of Sunni mosques and homes, accusations of Shia militia violence, and the government's silence on these issues.
  • Interviews with local police and victims provide evidence of kidnappings, killings, and the displacement of Sunnis.

Chapter 6

Conversations with Militia Insiders and Victims

16:49 - 6 min, 42 sec

Further discussions with militia members and victims shed light on the severity of militia abuses.

Further discussions with militia members and victims shed light on the severity of militia abuses.

  • A militia insider admits to the presence of Iranian fighters among their ranks and the maltreatment of Sunni residents.
  • Victims share their experiences of kidnapping and torture at the hands of Shia militias.

Chapter 7

The Role of Shia Militias in the Battle for Mosul

23:31 - 29 min, 24 sec

The segment focuses on the role of Shia militias in the battle for Mosul and its aftermath.

The segment focuses on the role of Shia militias in the battle for Mosul and its aftermath.

  • Shia militias, including those with ties to Iran, play a crucial role in securing territories around Mosul.
  • The documentary captures the treatment of Sunni civilians in areas liberated from ISIS by the militias.

More FRONTLINE PBS | Official summaries

When Antibiotics Don't Work (full documentary) | FRONTLINE

When Antibiotics Don't Work (full documentary) | FRONTLINE

FRONTLINE PBS | Official

FRONTLINE PBS | Official

The video explores the threat of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and the challenges faced in combating these superbugs.

In the Age of AI (full documentary) | FRONTLINE

In the Age of AI (full documentary) | FRONTLINE

FRONTLINE PBS | Official

FRONTLINE PBS | Official

An in-depth look into the transformative and pervasive impact of artificial intelligence on our society and future.