U.S. and Saudi Arabia Conduct Strikes on Iran-Aligned Militants in Iraq
The United States and Saudi Arabia launched precision strikes in eastern Iraq on Tuesday. These operations targeted groups aligned with Iran, which the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) claims are directed by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to attack U.S. forces and Saudi energy facilities.
CENTCOM reported that the joint operation targeted several logistics hubs and weapons sites. This action followed numerous unsuccessful drone attacks by IRGC over the past 72 hours. The command stated that they intercepted multiple ballistic missiles launched by the IRGC in an attempted surprise assault on American bases in the Middle East, emphasizing that all missiles were successfully intercepted.
Reuters confirmed that the IRGC launched several ballistic missiles targeting a U.S. airbase and CENTCOM facility in Jordan, claiming these actions were in retaliation for U.S. activities against Iranian interests. CENTCOM remains on alert and ready for further developments.
All Iranian missiles were successfully intercepted. U.S. forces remain vigilant and at a high state of readiness.
CENTCOM also highlighted that from February to April, there were over 600 attempted attacks against U.S. citizens and facilities in Iraq. This statistic underscores the threat of IRGC-backed proxy forces in the region. They warned that continued attacks by IRGC and its militias could lead to further military action.
Rajan Menon, a professor at the City College of New York, observed that without a ceasefire, incidents such as the U.S.-Saudi strikes and Iran’s targeting of bases in Jordan are to be expected. The situation indicates the U.S. and allies’ readiness to respond militarily to Iranian-backed groups despite diplomatic efforts.
Alongside these military activities, earlier on the same day, President Donald Trump hosted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. They discussed issues related to Iran, including the ongoing conflict and the potential expansion of the Abraham Accords. Netanyahu emphasized the shared resolve against Iran obtaining nuclear weapons, stressing Iran’s aggression in the region and potential threats to global peace.
Netanyahu stated, “We have a common commitment; we don’t want to see this fanatic regime in Tehran have nuclear weapons to threaten every American, and to threaten the peace of the world, and to threaten the existence of Israel.”