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The Saudi Press Agency disseminated a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on July 29, 2026, detailing the justification for recent military action in Iraq. The ministry declared that the operation by Saudi armed forces against specific targets was conducted in full coordination with US Central Command. This move came in direct response to drone assaults on Saudi oil facilities traced to Iran-backed militias operating from within Iraq.
A separate statement carried by the Saudi Press Agency on July 27 condemned the UAV attacks launched by these Iran-affiliated militias against the kingdom. Saudi air defences intercepted the incoming threats with complete efficiency and capability, according to official accounts. The incidents affected sites in Riyadh and the Eastern Province, raising fresh concerns over the security of critical energy infrastructure.
During a cabinet session chaired by the Crown Prince, ministers strongly condemned the attacks originating from both Yemen and Iraq. The Cabinet underscored that Saudi Arabia would not tolerate infringements on its security, interests or national assets. It pledged a firm response in keeping with international humanitarian law, its customary rules and the principle of proportionality.
The Cabinet further called upon the Iraqi government to implement all necessary measures preventing its territory from serving as a launchpad for aggression against the kingdom. Officials expressed appreciation for the international community and organisations that had denounced the criminal attacks. Such support reinforces the broad consensus against using neighbouring countries as bases for proxy operations.
In its latest statement the ministry made clear that the militias bore responsibility for choosing an irresponsible path of escalation over de-escalation. This decision violated international law and the principles of Islamic brotherhood, the statement added. Saudi Arabia holds no desire for escalation yet stands ready to defend itself against any recurring threats.
The affirmation aligns with earlier warnings issued by Saudi authorities in the days leading up to the strikes. Coordination with US Central Command ensured the response adhered to established protocols for regional security cooperation. The targeted nature of the operation aimed to address the immediate source of the attacks without wider regional disruption.
