Story perspectives

Protests, Diplomatic Row Spur Saudi Strikes on Iraqi Militias

5/16/2026

Left

Saudi Bombs Militias

Protests followed April 7 storming of Kuwait’s consulate in Basra, with Kuwait summoning Iraq’s envoy and Saudi Arabia recalling its ambassador.
Saudi fighter jets bombed Iran-backed Shi'ite militia sites inside Iraq, with a March 5 Iraqi search finding no base evidence.
Rockets were launched from Kuwait into Iraq, though officials not confirm Kuwaiti or U.S. involvement.
Militias flew drones over Iraq’s borders, intercepting a launcher aimed at Saudi sites.

Right

Iraq Denies Base

Former Prime Minister Mustafa al Kadhimi warned the alleged Israeli-American base would breach Iraq’s sovereignty and called for full transparency.
The Popular Mobilization Forces swept 120 km in Iraq, a March 5 search finding no base, airstrip or activity in Najaf desert.
Iraqi Joint Operations Command said the March images were outdated and denied any unauthorized base.
The operation aimed to locate an alleged Israeli-American base, reflecting concerns over foreign interference.

History

Historical Context

The 2003 U.S.-led invasion toppled Saddam, led the Coalition Provisional Authority to govern Iraq and deployed about 148,000 U.S. troops. Disbanding the Iraqi army in May 2003 sparked a long insurgency. Today, former prime minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi warns that alleged Israeli-American bases revive the post-invasion power vacuum and risk new Gulf confrontations.

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Saudi Bombs Militias

Protests followed April 7 storming of Kuwait’s consulate in Basra, with Kuwait summoning Iraq’s envoy and Saudi Arabia recalling its ambassador.
Saudi fighter jets bombed Iran-backed Shi'ite militia sites inside Iraq, with a March 5 Iraqi search finding no base evidence.
Rockets were launched from Kuwait into Iraq, though officials not confirm Kuwaiti or U.S. involvement.
Militias flew drones over Iraq’s borders, intercepting a launcher aimed at Saudi sites.

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