US and Saudi Launch Joint Airstrikes on Iran-Backed Groups in Iraq

The US and Saudi Arabia have launched joint airstrikes on Iran-backed armed groups in Iraq, in retaliation for drone attacks on Saudi oil facilities.

Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces said the strikes killed at least 20 fighters and wounded 32, with Baghdad condemning the attack as a violation of its sovereignty.

The escalation comes amid ongoing tensions between Iran and the US, with Iran rejecting an Omani proposal to jointly manage the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran seeks sole control of the inbound shipping lane and partial control of the outbound route, according to a senior Iranian official.