US-Saudi Strikes on Iran-Backed Groups Escalate Gulf Conflict

The US and Saudi Arabia have carried out coordinated airstrikes against Iran-backed armed groups in Iraq, marking Washington's first direct military action in the Middle East since President Donald Trump paused the bombing campaign against Iran last week.

The operation represents a significant expansion of regional military involvement, with Saudi Arabia openly joining US strikes for the first time during the current conflict. The strikes were launched in response to drone attacks on Saudi oil facilities allegedly carried out by Iran-backed militias operating from Iraqi territory.

At least 20 fighters were killed and 32 wounded in the strikes, according to Iraq's Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF), a network of Iran-backed paramilitary groups integrated into Iraq's security forces. The operation marks a notable shift in Saudi Arabia's role in the regional conflict, with Riyadh publicly acknowledging joint operations alongside the US.

The Strait of Hormuz remains the central point of contention between Washington and Tehran, with Iran rejecting an Omani proposal for joint management of the waterway. Oil prices have risen again following the renewed fighting, with Brent crude climbing approximately 4.6% to around $88 per barrel.