The United States and Saudi Arabia executed joint airstrikes against Iran-backed militias in Iraq, as reported by U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM). This action follows recent missile attacks from Iran targeting U.S. forces in Jordan. This marks the first confirmed U.S. airstrike since a brief pause began on Friday and the first instance of Saudi Arabia directly attacking targets in Iraq, as well as the first joint operation with the U.S. in this conflict.
CENTCOM stated that the airstrikes occurred on July 28 and targeted logistics and weapons sites associated with Iran-aligned terrorists directed by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The strikes were described as a response to over 30 drone attacks directed at U.S. forces and Saudi energy infrastructure in the previous 72 hours. CENTCOM noted that from February to April 2026, there were more than 600 attempted attacks on U.S. citizens and facilities by Iran-aligned militias in Iraq, urging the IRGC and its proxies to cease these actions to avoid further military responses.
Saudi Arabia confirmed its participation in the strikes, emphasizing its right to defend itself. The Saudi Ministry of Defense stated that it conducted targeted strikes against militia objectives linked to attacks on its petroleum facilities. The strikes were reportedly aimed at the headquarters of the 40th Popular Mobilization Forces Brigade, known as Kataib al-Imam Ali, which has ties to Hezbollah and is viewed with skepticism by other militias.
The exact timing of the airstrikes remains unclear, but they occurred in the early morning hours of Wednesday local time. The coordination required for a joint operation suggests that planning had been underway prior to the Iranian missile attacks on U.S. forces in Jordan.