US, Saudi strikes hit Iran-backed targets in eastern Iraq

The United States and Saudi Arabia carried out joint airstrikes against Iran-backed groups in Iraq, targeting logistics hubs and weapons facilities in the country's east, according to the US Central Command (CENTCOM). The operation followed a series of drone attacks that Washington said had targeted US military personnel and Saudi energy infrastructure over the previous three days.

CENTCOM cites repeated drone attacks

In a statement, CENTCOM said the strikes were directed at groups linked to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which it accused of coordinating attacks against American forces and strategic Saudi facilities. The command said more than 30 drone attacks had been launched within 72 hours but claimed none of them achieved their intended objectives. It also stated that Iranian-aligned armed groups had carried out more than 600 attempted attacks on US citizens and facilities in Iraq between February and April, warning that further military action could follow if such attacks continue.

Saudi Arabia invokes self-defense

Saudi Arabia's Defense Ministry said the operation was conducted under Article 51 of the UN Charter, which recognizes the right of self-defense. According to the ministry, the strikes were intended to respond to attacks launched from Iraqi territory against Saudi petroleum infrastructure. The statement emphasized that Riyadh does not seek a broader military escalation but would continue to respond to threats against its national security.

PMF reports casualties and condemns operation

The Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), a coalition of predominantly Iran-backed armed groups, said several of its headquarters were struck during overnight air raids. The organization reported deaths and injuries among its personnel, along with damage to buildings and equipment, although it did not provide a confirmed casualty figure. Describing the strikes as "treacherous terrorist attacks," the PMF said the operation represented a dangerous escalation and a violation of Iraq's sovereignty and its official security institutions.

Regional tensions remain elevated

Explosions were reported in several Iraqi provinces, including Basra and Wasit, as Iraqi authorities assessed the scale of the damage and casualties. The latest military action underscores growing regional tensions involving the United States, Iran and their respective allies, with Iraq once again emerging as a focal point in the broader security landscape of the Middle East.