The United States and Saudi Arabia conducted coordinated airstrikes against armed groups in Iraq on July 29, marking a significant escalation in Middle East tensions following a brief lull in hostilities. The strikes targeted several bases associated with Iran-backed paramilitary factions, including members of Iraq’s Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF), a powerful coalition integrated into Iraq’s security apparatus. At least 20 fighters were reported killed and 32 wounded.

The operation followed a series of retaliatory moves after Iran launched ballistic missile attacks against U.S. military positions in Jordan and targeted ships in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran also reported that a U.S. projectile struck its city of Piranshahr near the Iraqi border. These developments came days after U.S. President Donald Trump suspended an intensive bombing campaign against Iran, which had lasted nearly two weeks and involved widespread airstrikes across the region.

The U.S. Central Command cited drone attacks on Saudi oil targets originating in Iraq as justification for the joint U.S.-Saudi strikes. Washington and Riyadh affirmed their intent to respond robustly to threats, as President Trump vowed to "hit them hard" but left open the possibility of future diplomatic talks with Tehran. Meanwhile, Iran rejected a regional security proposal advanced by Oman, which called for joint management of the Strait of Hormuz—a critical waterway for global oil shipments—expressing concerns that the plan was unfavorable to its interests.

Iraq’s government responded swiftly to the airstrikes, calling an emergency meeting and condemning the attacks as a serious breach of its sovereignty. The Iraqi presidency described the airstrikes as “unacceptable” and urged an end to assaults by armed groups operating within its borders against neighboring countries. The situation has raised fears of a wider conflict, as the renewed fighting highlights the volatility in Iraq and the broader Middle East, where proxy tensions between Iran and U.S.-allied states continue to flare.

Oil prices surged following the renewed violence, reflecting concerns over potential disruptions to supply routes and the broader impact of escalating regional conflict. With no immediate resolution in sight, the cycle of attacks and counterattacks underscores the fragile nature of peace prospects in the area.