Pro-Iran militias in Iraq attack Saudi Arabia; US, Saudi strike back

Published Jul 29, 02:02 PM UTC

Saudi Arabia reported being attacked by pro-Iranian militias based in Iraq, prompting US and Saudi airstrikes on militia targets in Baghdad, Basra, and Nineveh. The US military stated it hit logistics and weapons sites in response to over 30 drone attacks on Saudi oil facilities within 72 hours. The Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), an Iran-loyal militia alliance, reported 20 fighters killed and 32 wounded. The PMF denied responsibility, claiming Saudi Arabia is deflecting from Houthi attacks from Yemen. Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Saidi, who faces US pressure to disarm the militias by end of September, convened an emergency Security Council meeting. He is attempting a balancing act, meeting with Lebanese Hezbollah to suggest integrating fighters into the military while maintaining relations with both Iran and the US. Al-Saidi plans to travel to Saudi Arabia to prevent further escalation.

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