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Snapshot 8:Wed, Jul 29, 2026 7:29:37 AM GMT last edited by Kani

Saudi Arabia, US Carry Out Strikes on Iran-Backed Groups in Iraq

Saudi Arabia, US Carry Out Strikes on Iran-Backed Groups in Iraq

Saudi Arabia, US Carry Out Strikes on Iran-Backed Groups in Iraq
Above: A U.S. Navy F/A-18F Super Hornet aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt, July 17, 2026 Image credit: Michelle Bir/AFP/Getty Images

The Spin


The U.S.-Saudi strikes on Iraq are more proof that Washington's military strategy is backfiring — Iran's IRGC still controls the Strait of Hormuz, while depleted U.S. munitions stockpiles force the Pentagon to ration missile intercepts. The Houthis struck Saudi Arabia's Abqaiq facility anyway, exposing how little these retaliatory strikes deter. The U.S. also failed to warn Gulf partners before attacking Iran, leaving allies exposed while protecting American and Israeli assets.

The U.S.-Saudi strikes were a justified response to more than 30 IRGC-directed drone attacks in 72 hours and over 600 attempted attacks on Americans and U.S. facilities since February. Iran's regime executes protesters, hangs dissidents and directs terrorist proxies to destabilize U.S. allies and threaten global shipping. Precision strikes on IRGC logistics and weapons sites are a firm, coordinated response needed to deter further aggression and protect regional security.


Metaculus Prediction

There is a 55 percent chance that the United States and Iran will sign a new agreement restricting Iran's nuclear program before 2029, according to the Metaculus prediction community.


The Controversies



Go Deeper

© 2026 Improve the News Foundation. All rights reserved.Version 7.4.1

© 2026 Improve the News Foundation.

All rights reserved.

Version 7.4.1