Saudi Arabia has conducted targeted strikes against Iran-backed armed groups in Iraq, coordinating with the US Central Command (CENTCOM), according to a statement from the Saudi Ministry of Defence. The strikes, which took place early on Wednesday, July 29th, 2026, were described as a response to recent drone attacks.

The Saudi statement said its air defences intercepted and destroyed several drones targeting petroleum facilities in the Eastern Province and Riyadh regions. These drones were reportedly launched from Iraqi territory by Iran-aligned militias. Riyadh emphasized that it does not seek escalation but will respond to any aggression.

Iraq's military stated on Monday that it is committed to preventing its territory from being used as a launching point for attacks against friendly countries. Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi is expected to visit Saudi Arabia on Thursday, July 30th, 2026, following his order for Iraqi security agencies to investigate the drone attacks.

However, the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an umbrella group of Iran-backed armed factions, denied involvement in the attacks, calling Saudi claims "fabrications" and warning that any Saudi action would be met with a harsh response.

Sources