The record
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- Saudi Arabia has formally joined the US-led military campaign against Iran-backed groups, carrying out coordinated airstrikes with the US on militia bases in Iraq.
- The move came after more than 30 drone attacks in 72 hours targeted US forces and Saudi energy infrastructure, including oil facilities in the kingdom's Eastern Province and Riyadh region.
- Iraq's Popular Mobilisation Forces said at least 20 of its fighters were killed, and both Iraq and Iran condemned the strikes as violations of sovereignty.
- This marks a shift for Riyadh, which had pursued diplomacy with Iran since restoring ties in 2023 and previously avoided direct involvement; officials describe the action as limited self-defence meant to restore deterrence.
What to watch next
- Whether Iran-backed militias or Iran respond with further attacks on Saudi or US targets
- How the Houthi blockade of Saudi ships through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, announced July 20, develops
- Impact on Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 economic plans, oil exports and investor confidence
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Named Saudi Arabia · United States · Iran · Iraq · Yemen · Houthis · Mohammed bin Salman · Popular Mobilisation Forces · Abdulaziz Alghashian · BBC · Faisal Al-Hamad · Gulf International Forum · The New York Times · The Telegraph
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