Saudi Arabia Covertly Strikes Iran
Analysis based on 37 articles · First reported May 12, 2026 · Last updated May 13, 2026
The revelation of covert military strikes by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates on Iran, following initial strikes by the United States and Israel, indicates a significant escalation and widening of the Middle East conflict. This could lead to increased volatility in oil prices due to potential disruptions in shipping routes like the Strait of Hormuz, and higher demand for defense stocks as regional tensions rise.
Saudi Arabia launched numerous unpublicized military strikes on Iran in late March, in retaliation for missile and drone attacks on the kingdom. This marks the first known direct military action by Saudi Arabia on Iranian soil, signaling a bolder defense posture. The United Arab Emirates also carried out covert strikes on Iran. These actions underscore the widening of a conflict that began with United States and Israel airstrikes on Iran on February 28. Despite the military actions, Saudi Arabia maintained diplomatic contact with Iran, leading to an informal de-escalation agreement before a broader ceasefire between the United States and Iran on April 7. Projectiles fired at Saudi Arabia were also assessed to have originated from Iraq, prompting Saudi Arabia to protest to Iraq. Pakistan deployed fighter jets to reassure Saudi Arabia and urged restraint during a spike in attacks.
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