According to the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) and the US military, a joint military operation by the United States and Saudi Arabia struck pro-Iranian militia targets in Iraq, resulting in unspecified casualties and material damage. The July 2026 strikes followed drone attacks targeting US forces and Saudi energy infrastructure.
PMF Confirms Casualties and Infrastructure Damage in Iraq
Joint military operations carried out by the United States and Saudi Arabia in Iraq resulted in multiple casualties and property destruction, according to an official statement released by the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), also known as Hashed al-Shaabi. The PMF reported that the strikes caused the deaths of several personnel, left others injured, and inflicted material damage on multiple buildings and properties. The escalation follows a series of cross-border security incidents involving regional militias and energy assets.
CENTCOM Cites Retaliation for Drone Strikes on US Forces
United States Central Command (CENTCOM) stated that the joint strikes served as a direct retaliation for drone attacks launched from Iraqi territory against US forces and Saudi oil facilities over preceding days. CENTCOM specified that the operation targeted terrorists allied with Iran who were operating under orders from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). In its public statement, CENTCOM issued a warning that the IRGC and its proxy groups must halt their attacks to prevent further military responses from the United States.
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Saudi Ministry of Defense Confirms Involvement in Joint Strikes
The Saudi Ministry of Defense confirmed the kingdom’s direct participation in the joint military action. Riyadh stated that the operation successfully struck militia-owned targets inside Iraq that shared a direct connection to recent assaults on the royal kingdom’s oil facilities. Prior to the joint operation, the Saudi defense ministry reported that its forces had successfully intercepted incoming drones targeting oil infrastructure in the eastern region of Saudi Arabia, prompting diplomatic outreach to Baghdad urging stronger border security.
Iraqi Government Response and Investigation
In response to diplomatic pressure from Riyadh, the government in Baghdad announced that it had ordered a formal investigation into the drone attacks originating from its territory that targeted Saudi facilities. The diplomatic exchange preceded the military engagement by the US and Saudi coalition, highlighting growing regional tensions over security control along the border.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the joint US and Saudi strikes in Iraq?
According to CENTCOM and the Saudi Ministry of Defense, the strikes were launched in retaliation for recent drone attacks originating from Iraq that targeted US forces and Saudi oil infrastructure.
Who carried out the military operation?
The military operation was conducted jointly by the United States and Saudi Arabia, targeting pro-Iranian militia groups operating within Iraq.
What damage was reported by local forces in Iraq?
According to the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), the strikes resulted in the deaths of several personnel, multiple injuries, and structural damage to buildings and properties.
How did Saudi Arabia respond to the initial drone incursions?
The Saudi Ministry of Defense reported intercepting drones targeting eastern oil facilities, called on the Iraqi government to prevent attacks from its soil, and subsequently participated in the joint retaliatory strikes.
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