DUBAI, 29 July. - (ANA) - US and Saudi Arabian Armed Forces conducted "precision strikes" in Iraq early this morning, targeting Iran-aligned groups. The strikes targeted "multiple terrorist logistics and weapons sites across eastern Iraq" in what US Central Command called a "strong response" to more than 30 drone attacks carried out by these groups on US and Saudi energy infrastructure over the past 72 hours. 

 

Saudi Arabia’s involvement in the strikes marks a significant shift, as Riyadh has largely sought to avoid being drawn directly into the conflict. 

 

However, mounting attacks by Iran-backed militias in Iraq and repeated Houthi threats to Saudi-linked shipping in the Red Sea appear to have prompted a more direct military response.

 

Iraq's Popular Mobilisation Forces said several of its headquarters across different parts of the country were hit in the early-morning strikes. 

 

The PMF, an umbrella group of mostly Iran-backed armed factions formally integrated into Iraq’s security forces, said 10 of its members were killed and six others were wounded in the attacks. It also reported damage to buildings and other property belonging to the organisation.

 

President Donald Trump's administration is facing fresh scrutiny about the status of the US military's weapons stockpile amid a lull in the Iran war.

 

Mr Trump pushed back on suggestions the conflict in the Middle East is depleting US munitions supplies after NBC News reported last week that military commanders have been selective in which Iranian projectiles to block to preserve the Pentagon’s diminishing supply of interceptors. - (ANA) -

 

AB/ANA/30 July 2026 - - -