Joint military strikes conducted by Saudi Arabia and the United States killed at least 20 members of Iraq’s Popular Mobilisation Forces and wounded 32 others across multiple sites in Iraq, according to statements released by the PMF and military officials. The operation follows a series of intercepted drone attacks targeting petroleum facilities in the Eastern Province and Riyadh regions, which the Saudi Ministry of Defence stated were launched from Iraqi territory by Iran-aligned militias.
Joint Saudi-US Air Strikes Target PMF Sites in Iraq
According to the Saudi Ministry of Defence, the air strikes served as a direct response to recent drone incursions. Saudi air defences successfully intercepted and destroyed several unmanned aerial vehicles targeting critical infrastructure. While the Kingdom emphasized that it does not seek regional escalation, officials maintained that Riyadh will respond decisively to any cross-border aggression.
United States Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed participation in the joint operations alongside Saudi forces. The military action marks a significant escalation in the region, coming shortly after US President Donald Trump suspended an intensive bombing campaign following a 13-day operation.
Did you know?
Under Iraqi law, the Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF) operate as an official part of the country’s security forces, reporting directly to the prime minister who serves as the commander-in-chief.
Iraqi Government Response and Emergency Security Meetings
Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi convened an emergency meeting of the Ministerial Council for National Security immediately following the dawn raids. Prior to the strikes, al-Zaidi had already ordered Iraqi security agencies to investigate the origin of the drone attacks directed at Saudi infrastructure.
The PMF condemned the joint operation as a “highly dangerous escalation” and a blatant violation of Iraqi sovereignty. Meanwhile, the Islamic Resistance in Iraq—a self-proclaimed resistance armed group backed by Iran—denied any involvement in the drone attacks against Saudi Arabia, dismissing Riyadh’s claims as fabrications and warning of a harsh response.
FAQ Section
Who carried out the military strikes in Iraq?
The strikes were conducted jointly by the military forces of Saudi Arabia and the United States Central Command (CENTCOM).
What prompted the joint Saudi-US air strikes?
According to the Saudi Ministry of Defence, the operation was a direct response to drone attacks launched from Iraqi territory targeting petroleum facilities in the Riyadh and Eastern Province regions.
What is the status of the Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF) in Iraq?
The PMF is an umbrella organization of armed groups that is legally integrated into Iraq’s security forces, answering directly to the prime minister.
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