Iraq’s authorities condemned the coordinated U.S.-Saudi airstrikes that killed at least 20 members of the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) this Wednesday, calling the attack an unacceptable violation of national sovereignty.
The pre-dawn bombings struck command centers of the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), a legally recognized component of the Iraqi Armed Forces, across seven provinces: Baghdad, Wasit, Nineveh, Basra, Kirkuk, Karbala and Diyala.
At least 20 fighters were killed and 32 others wounded, while barracks, vehicles, and military equipment suffered extensive material damage.
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The Iraqi Presidency issued a firm statement condemning the aggression as “a flagrant violation of sovereignty” and an “unacceptable attack against its official security institutions.” The government categorically rejected “any aggression against its territory” and opposed “the use of Iraqi territory as a platform or stage for attacks against neighboring countries or for settling regional and international scores.”
This attack occurs at a critical diplomatic juncture. Baghdad had engaged in dialogue with Washington and Riyadh precisely to address allegations regarding drone strikes on Saudi oil infrastructure.
Despite the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) denying responsibility for such operations, the United States and Saudi Arabia proceeded with military retaliation, effectively undermining ongoing diplomatic efforts.
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The Iraqi National Security Council, chaired by Prime Minister Ali al Zaidi, expressed firm rejection of the attack. The body emphasized that the incursion occurred precisely while Baghdad pursued dialogue with Washington and Riyadh to clarify the drone incidents. The statement underscored a “need to prioritize dialogue” and avoid further regional escalation.
Regional Condemnation
Iran joined Iraq in condemning the bombings, characterizing them as a violation of Iraqi sovereignty and the UN Charter. Tehran warned that the strikes represent a dangerous maneuver designed to generate regional destabilization.
The crisis unfolds against a backdrop of sustained U.S. pressure on Baghdad to disarm the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), mirroring strategies previously employed to weaken Hezbollah Resistance Movement in Lebanon. Months ago, Washington intervened to prevent veteran politician Nuri al Maliki, who maintains close ties with Iran, from assuming leadership, ensuring Ali al Zaidi became Prime Minister instead. The White House has repeatedly threatened to withdraw economic support to leverage political outcomes.
In the hours following the attack, hundreds of PMF fighters participated in funeral ceremonies for the martyrs across the affected provinces, signaling continued unity and readiness to defend the nation’s territorial integrity.
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) July 29, 2026
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