BAGHDAD, Iraq has reaffirmed its sovereignty following joint US-Saudi military strikes inside the country, stating that only the Iraqi government has the authority to respond to attacks launched from Iraqi territory.
In a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, the Iraqi government said the National Security Council had instructed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to take the necessary diplomatic measures regarding the US-Saudi military operation.
The statement urged all concerned parties to avoid further escalation and refrain from actions that could worsen the already fragile security situation across the region.
The Prime Minister’s Office emphasized that Baghdad remains committed to keeping Iraq out of regional conflicts and will pursue diplomatic and legal avenues to safeguard the country’s sovereignty and stability.
The statement came after the United States and Saudi Arabia carried out coordinated strikes against what they described as Iran-backed militia positions in Iraq. According to Saudi officials, the operation was launched in response to recent drone attacks targeting Saudi oil facilities.
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Militia sources claimed that 20 people were killed and 32 others injured in the strikes, alleging that the attacks targeted militia headquarters at multiple locations. The deadliest strike reportedly occurred in Nineveh Province, where 10 people were said to have been killed.
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defense said the operation was conducted jointly with the US Central Command (CENTCOM) in response to drone attacks against the Kingdom.
The US military said the strikes targeted Iran-aligned armed groups that were allegedly preparing attacks against US forces and Saudi energy infrastructure.
