US and Saudi Arabia Strike Iran-Backed Groups in Iraq

The United States and Saudi Arabia launched joint precision strikes against Iran-aligned groups and their facilities in Iraq, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) has confirmed. The operation on 28 July targeted terrorist groups affiliated with Iran and directed by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to attack US forces and Saudi energy infrastructure. US and Saudi fighter jets struck several logistics and weapons facilities in eastern Iraq in response to more than 30 drone attacks launched by Iran’s IRGC in the preceding 72 hours. CENTCOM stated that the unprovoked attacks on US forces were unsuccessful and noted that Iran-aligned groups in Iraq had conducted over 600 attack attempts against US citizens and facilities between February and April. The IRGC and its designated terrorist proxy groups must cease these attacks to avoid further US military response, CENTCOM added. Separately, the Saudi Ministry of Defence said the joint strikes were a response to attacks launched from Iraqi territory against Saudi oil facilities, citing Article 51 of the UN Charter on the right to self-defence. The ministry described the action as precise and targeted, emphasising that the Kingdom does not seek escalation but will respond to any aggression it faces. Local media reported that the strikes hit the Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF), a coalition largely composed of Iran-backed Shia militias. Explosions were reported in several areas of Iraq, including Basra and Wasit Province south of Baghdad. The PMF command in Basra said its headquarters was hit by an airstrike at 2 a.m. local time, resulting in deaths, injuries, and damage to buildings and property. The PMF condemned the targeting as a dangerous escalation, a violation of Iraqi sovereignty, and an attack on official Iraqi security institutions, adding that authorities are closely monitoring the situation and assessing the casualties and damage.