U.S.-Saudi strikes on Iran-backed groups in Iraq kill at least 20 PMF members

Published Jul 29, 07:49 AM UTC

On July 29, 2026, U.S.-Saudi airstrikes targeted Iran-backed militants in Iraq, killing at least 20 members of the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), a former paramilitary alliance now integrated into the Iraqi armed forces. The strikes hit PMF bases in seven provinces and wounded 32 others. The U.S. and Saudi Arabia said the operation was in response to recent attacks on U.S. forces and Saudi oil facilities, including drone interceptions by Riyadh. The PMF condemned the strikes as a 'dangerous escalation' and a violation of Iraqi sovereignty. Pro-Iran groups denied Saudi accusations and warned against further attacks. The incident underscores ongoing tensions between Washington and Tehran, with Iraq caught as a proxy battleground. Iraq's new Prime Minister, Ali al-Zaidi, who has sought to balance U.S. and Iranian influence, faces renewed pressure to disarm pro-Iran factions.