US-Saudi Strikes Kill Dozens in Iraq Amid Tensions with Pro-Iran Groups

The US and Saudi Arabia launched strikes in Iraq, killing at least 20 militants, including several Iranians. The targets were reportedly Iran-backed armed groups that have been responsible for attacks on US forces and Saudi oil facilities.

According to the Hashed al-Shaabi, an Iraqi alliance of pro-Iran groups, at least 20 fighters were killed in the strikes, with another 32 wounded. Five Iranian advisors were among those reported killed in a strike in the central province of Diyala.

The US and Saudi Arabia said their action was in response to attacks on their forces and oil facilities. The Hashed al-Shaabi, also known as the Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF), denied attacking Saudi Arabia but warned that they would retaliate against the US after the Arbaeen day of pilgrimage.

Iraq's new Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi has vowed to ensure that pro-Iran armed groups disarm and hand over their weapons, but has faced pushback from some powerful factions. The strikes come as Washington continues to pressure Baghdad to take action against these groups, which have frequently targeted US facilities in the country.