U.S. and Saudi Arabia strike Iran-aligned terrorists in Iraq

The United States and Saudi Arabia launched joint airstrikes targeting Iranian-backed groups in eastern Iraq late Tuesday, according to U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM). The operation aimed to disrupt "terrorist logistics and weapons sites."

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The U.S.-Saudi operation was aimed at "terrorist logistics and weapons sites across eastern Iraq."

CENTCOM stated the strikes were a direct response to more than 30 attempted drone attacks on U.S. forces and Saudi energy facilities over the preceding three days. Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Defense confirmed the "precise and targeted strikes," asserting its right to self-defense. While the specific groups were not named, Iran supports several Shiite militias in Iraq, some designated as foreign terrorist organizations by the U.S.

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We conducted precise and targeted strikes, citing its right to self-defense.

The U.S. military command alleged that Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps directed these attacks. CENTCOM issued a stern warning: "The IRGC and its terrorist proxies must cease these attacks to avoid further U.S. military response." Earlier on Tuesday, CENTCOM reported intercepting ballistic missiles launched by Iran's Revolutionary Guards in an "attempted surprise attack."

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The IRGC and its terrorist proxies must cease these attacks to avoid further U.S. military response.

These actions occur as the U.S. pauses direct strikes on Iran, following nearly two weeks of nightly operations that concluded Thursday. President Trump expressed optimism about potential diplomatic agreements, stating "very good talks" had occurred, but cautioned that the U.S. would proceed with military action if a deal was not reached. Iran, however, has indicated it is not currently seeking direct negotiations with the U.S.

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The U.S. and Iran have had "very good talks."