Saudi Arabia says strikes target militias, not Iraq or its people
Saudi Arabia explains the purpose of airstrikes
According to Arab media reports from Riyadh, the official said the strikes were carried out solely to weaken the operational capabilities of armed militia groups based in Iraq. He claimed the groups had carried out attacks targeting Saudi Arabia’s critical civilian infrastructure and key economic facilities.
The official said the military action was carefully planned to focus only on locations linked to those armed groups. He added that Saudi Arabia had no intention of targeting Iraqi civilians or state institutions.
Warehouses and facilities were targeted
The official said the airstrikes were limited to warehouses and facilities allegedly used by the militias. He claimed these locations were being used to prepare and launch attacks against strategic sites inside Saudi Arabia.
According to the official, the operation focused on reducing the groups’ ability to carry out future attacks. Saudi authorities said the strikes were based on security assessments and intelligence.
Saudi Arabia cites national security concerns
The Saudi official claimed the armed groups posed a direct threat to the Kingdom’s national security. He alleged that the militias had targeted important civilian infrastructure, including petroleum facilities and other key economic sites.
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The official said protecting citizens and critical infrastructure remained a top priority for Saudi Arabia. He maintained that the military response was taken in line with the Kingdom’s security interests.
Military response followed months of restraint
The official said Saudi Arabia exercised restraint for several months before taking military action.
He accused the armed groups of undermining Iraq’s interests and harming its relations with Saudi Arabia, as well as with other Arab and Islamic countries.
According to the official, the militias' continued activities have increased regional tensions despite repeated concerns. He said the Kingdom decided to respond only after other efforts had failed.
Claims over activities inside Iraq
The official further alleged that the armed groups had been using Iraqi territory and resources to launch hostile activities against neighbouring countries. He claimed these actions were also affecting Iraq’s diplomatic relations with countries across the region.
Saudi Arabia said such activities did not serve Iraq’s national interests and could damage regional stability. The official stressed that the Kingdom distinguishes between Iraq and the armed groups it accuses of carrying out attacks.
Saudi Arabia reaffirms ties with Iraq
The Saudi official reiterated that the Kingdom highly values its relationship with the Iraqi government and its people. He said Saudi Arabia remains committed to expanding cooperation and strengthening bilateral ties with Iraq.
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The official added that Riyadh wants to continue working with Baghdad to promote regional stability and mutual interests. He stressed that the recent military action should not be viewed as hostility towards Iraq.
Regional tensions remain in focus
The latest statement comes as security developments in the region continue to draw international attention. Analysts say relations between neighbouring countries can be affected when cross-border security concerns arise.
Governments in the region have repeatedly called for stability, dialogue, and cooperation to prevent further escalation. Observers believe diplomatic engagement will remain important in addressing future security challenges.
