The United States of America, together with the Armed Forces of Saudi Arabia, carried out a large-scale military operation on the territory of Iraq. The target of the joint strike was pro-Iranian militant groups which, according to US intelligence, were preparing attacks against US forces and the energy infrastructure of the Kingdom.
Details of the Joint Operation
According to an official statement by US Central Command (CENTCOM), published on the social network X, on July 28, fighter jets from both countries delivered a series of high-precision strikes. As a result of the attack, several logistical facilities and weapons depots belonging to terrorist groups in eastern Iraq were destroyed.
Command emphasized that the actions of these groups were coordinated by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The operation was a direct response to the escalation of violence: in the last 72 hours, Iran-backed militants carried out more than 30 attacks using unmanned aerial vehicles.
Threat Statistics and Warnings
US military officials reported that none of the attacks on US positions in recent days achieved their objective. However, the statistics for a longer period look alarming: only from February to April 2026, pro-Iranian groups in Iraq attempted more than 600 attacks on US citizens and American facilities.
The CENTCOM statement contains a stern warning to Tehran:
"The IRGC and its terrorist proxies must cease these attacks to avoid further US military response".
Context of Escalation
Events are unfolding against the backdrop of continuing tension in the region. On July 29, Iran launched a ballistic missile at one of the US bases in the Middle East. This was the first strike after the parties temporarily ceased shelling last week.
At the same time, political dialogue is not concluded. US President Donald Trump previously stated that Washington does not rule out a positive outcome of negotiations with Iran, but simultaneously emphasized readiness for an alternative scenario in the absence of consensus.
