US, Saudi Forces Launch Airstrikes on Iran-Backed Groups in Iraq as Regional Tensions Escalate
The strikes came shortly after US forces intercepted missiles allegedly launched by Iran toward American military bases
Washington/Baghdad: (Web Desk) – The United States and Saudi Arabia launched coordinated airstrikes against Iran-backed armed groups in eastern Iraq on Wednesday, marking a renewed escalation in Middle East tensions after a brief pause in hostilities.
According to the US military, the joint operation targeted logistics hubs and weapons storage facilities used by Iran-aligned militias in retaliation for recent attacks on American forces and Saudi oil infrastructure. Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defence said the targeted groups were responsible for attacks on the Kingdom’s petroleum facilities.
The strikes came shortly after US forces intercepted missiles allegedly launched by Iran toward American military bases in the Gulf, ending a temporary lull in fighting that had been intended to create space for renewed diplomatic negotiations.
Meanwhile, Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) officials claimed they had intercepted and stopped three oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, asserting that Iran maintains “full control” over the strategically vital waterway. The development pushed global crude oil prices up by more than four percent amid renewed concerns over energy supplies.
The military action coincided with a meeting between US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House. The leaders described their discussions as productive, with Netanyahu saying they focused on preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and addressing broader regional security concerns.
Although Israel was not directly involved in the latest US-Saudi military operation, the meeting underscored continued coordination between Washington and Tel Aviv on Middle East security issues. Discussions were also expected to include developments in Gaza and the implementation of the Israel-Lebanon framework agreement.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a key flashpoint in the ongoing regional conflict, with Iran insisting on maintaining authority over the critical shipping route while tensions with the United States and its allies continue to rise.
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