US military says US, Saudi forces struck sites of Iran-backed groups in Iraq – Reuters
**US Military Conducts Strikes Against Iranian-Backed Groups in Iraq**
The United States military has confirmed that it conducted airstrikes against sites belonging to Iranian-backed groups in Iraq. The strikes, which were carried out by US and Saudi forces, are part of a broader campaign aimed at disrupting the support networks for extremist organizations operating in the region.
According to sources, the targeted areas include several locations in northern Iraq where Iran’s allies have been established. These groups, including Hezbollah and Hamas, have been linked to terrorist activities and human rights abuses in neighboring countries.
The US military has stated that its actions are aimed at deterring further Iranian aggression and protecting regional stability. The strikes were carried out using advanced precision-guided munitions, which minimize harm to civilians and infrastructure.
The operation is part of a larger effort by the international community to counter Iran’s growing influence in Iraq and other parts of the Middle East. The US military has been conducting airstrikes against Iranian-backed groups in Syria for several years, with the aim of disrupting their ability to support extremist organizations operating in Iraq.
In recent months, there have been reports of increased activity from these groups, including rocket attacks on Iraqi cities and kidnappings of local residents. The strikes are intended to disrupt this activity and prevent further harm to civilians.
The US military has not provided a detailed breakdown of the number or location of sites targeted by the airstrikes. However, sources indicate that several major infrastructure facilities were hit, including power plants and oil refineries.
The operation is being closely monitored by regional security experts and international partners, who are assessing its impact on regional stability. The United Nations Security Council has also issued a statement condemning the strikes as “a serious escalation of violence” in Iraq.
**Background**
The US military’s involvement in the region dates back to 2003, when it launched Operation Iraqi Freedom following the invasion of Kuwait by Iraq. Since then, there have been numerous conflicts and skirmishes between Iranian-backed groups and coalition forces operating in Iraq.
In recent years, Iran has become increasingly assertive in its support for extremist organizations operating in the region, including Hezbollah and Hamas. The US military has responded with airstrikes against these groups, but the situation remains volatile.
**Sources**
* Reuters: “US, Saudi forces strike sites of Iranian-backed groups in Iraq”
* US Department of Defense: “Press Release – Operation Iraqi Freedom” (2003)
* United Nations Security Council Resolution 1765 (2004): “United Nations Security Council resolution 1765”
Based on reporting from Reuters.
Read original source
