At least 10 members of Iraq’s Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF) were killed after US and Saudi forces carried out airstrikes on their bases in Iraq, according to alliance sources.
The strikes targeted PMF positions across several Iraqi provinces. Officials said the deadliest attack occurred in Nineveh province, where at least 10 members lost their lives. They warned that the death toll could increase as rescue teams continue assessing the damage.
Authorities also reported injuries in other areas affected by the strikes. Another PMF official confirmed the initial casualty figures.
US and Saudi Forces Target Iran-Linked Militants
The US and Saudi Arabia said they launched the operation against Iran-backed militants in Iraq. The strikes came after a brief pause in regional fighting ended.
The US military said its fighter aircraft targeted weapons and logistics facilities belonging to Iran-aligned groups in eastern Iraq. Saudi Arabia’s Defence Ministry also claimed that Iran-linked militias had carried out attacks against Saudi energy facilities.
The operation followed reports that US forces intercepted missiles launched by Iran toward American bases in the Gulf. The latest developments have increased concerns over further escalation in the region.
Iran Claims Control Over Strait of Hormuz
Washington said the recent pause in fighting aimed to create space for diplomatic discussions. These talks included issues related to the Strait of Hormuz, a major global energy route.
However, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said it had stopped three tankers in the waterway. The group also claimed it maintained “full control” over the strategic passage.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a major point of tension because a significant portion of global oil shipments passes through the route.
Trump and Netanyahu Discuss Regional Security
The strikes took place as US President Donald Trump met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Washington. It was their first in-person meeting since the Middle East conflict began.
The White House described the talks as positive and productive. Netanyahu later said the discussion focused on preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons.
Trump also described the meeting as successful but provided limited details.
Israel has not participated in the latest US-Iran hostilities. The conflict intensified after an earlier ceasefire collapsed, creating new challenges for regional stability.
