US and Saudi airstrikes in Iraq raise concerns over widening Middle East conflict
The United States and Saudi Arabia conducted airstrikes against Iranian-backed militias in Iraq, prompting denials from Iraqi officials and expanding a regional confrontation that began in February.
The United States and Saudi Arabia carried out coordinated airstrikes in Iraq on Wednesday, targeting the Iranian-backed Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) and killing at least 20 fighters. Saudi officials said the attacks were a response to drone strikes on Saudi oil facilities on 27 July, while the U.S. Pentagon confirmed nightly strikes against Iranian positions across the region.
Iraqi leaders quickly denied prior knowledge of the operation, highlighting the reluctance of regional governments to be linked to the expanding conflict. The strikes follow a series of retaliatory actions between U.S. forces and Iranian-aligned groups in Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Yemen, Jordan and Egypt since the conflict resumed after a brief lull.
The escalation comes as Saudi Arabia reportedly prepares a major offensive against Yemen’s Houthi militia, an Iranian ally that has recently declared a blockade of Saudi vessels in the Red Sea. The Houthis have attacked several ships, prompting Saudi Arabia to reroute a portion of its oil exports around the southern tip of Africa, increasing shipping costs.
Saudi officials have announced plans for an international maritime coalition to protect Red Sea shipping, with 14 states, including Turkey, Pakistan, Egypt and Sudan, reportedly agreeing to join. The coalition’s scope and coordination with the existing EU-led Operation Aspides remain unclear.
The broader conflict, which began in late February after the United States launched strikes in response to Iranian actions, has raised concerns about regional stability and the potential impact on global energy markets.