Houthi-Iraqi drone attacks on Saudi oil

Saudi Arabia intercepted and destroyed drones launched from Iraq targeting oil facilities in its Eastern Province on July 27-28, 2026. The attacks, attributed by Saudi and US officials to Iran-backed militias, were reportedly coordinated between the Houthis and Iraqi armed groups under the oversight of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. In response, Saudi Arabia and the United States conducted joint airstrikes on militia sites in Iraq, reportedly killing at least 20 fighters and six Iranian advisers. The attacks open a new land-based front against Saudi oil infrastructure, complementing Houthi naval attacks on Red Sea shipping and occurring while the Strait of Hormuz remains closed. Regional officials and analysts point to growing coordination within Iran's Axis of Resistance, with Iraq emerging as a key launchpad. Pakistan and Qatar condemned the attacks, while Iraq ordered an investigation and denied allowing its territory to be used. The Houthis claimed responsibility, while the Islamic Resistance in Iraq denied the allegations. The escalation raises concerns over energy supply disruptions and broader regional conflict.