Saudi and US Strike Iran‑Backed Militias in Iraq
US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced a coordinated strike with Saudi forces that hit multiple Iran‑aligned militia bases in Iraq’s eastern and central provinces. The operation was carried out in response to over 30 Iranian‑directed drone attacks on US and Saudi targets in the past 72 hours.
According to CENTCOM, the strikes targeted “terrorist logistics and weapons sites” while the US said the Iranian attack on their bases earlier that day was intercepted by missile defense systems.
The Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF), an umbrella of mostly Shia militias that has been formally integrated into Iraq’s armed forces, confirmed that at least 20 fighters were killed and 32 injured in the air attacks. PMF officials condemned the strikes as a “violation of Iraq’s sovereignty” and called the operation an extreme escalation.
Saudi Defence Minister Major‑General Turki al‑Maliki said the Kingdom was acting in self‑defence after Iranian‑backed groups launched drones from Iraqi territory at Saudi oil facilities. He added, “We respond decisively to any aggression directed against us.”
In the broader context, the US–Iran confrontation has been simmering since the Iran War began in February, with each side recently exchanging missile and drone strikes. Saudi Arabia, the leading Sunni power, has expressed frustration at Iran’s repeated attacks on its territory, which have also aimed at US military facilities located there.
Live Updates & Interactive Map
As the conflict escalates, the international community urges restraint. The US says these operations are a strong response to prevent further Iranian attacks, while Iran’s foreign ministry claims the strikes violate international law. The Saudi‑American partnership marks a significant escalation in the region’s power struggle.
